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Mark Eyre on 15 August 2025
Thanks Simon, for finding the copy of Central Park Parade, will bring back memories of the late, great John Dunn show.
Jamie Biggerstaff on 15 August 2025
Happy 90th birthday to Jim Dale, comic actor, singer, songwriter and musical performing legend too!
Malcolm Turner on 14 August 2025
This is wonderful, I tune in for the first time today and fell instantly in love with it.
I have been looking for something like this for such a long time.
I can never thank you enough
Barbara Heathcote on 13 August 2025
Just listening to the quiet hour and thank you Jane for playing a Vic Damone song. Also Al Di La from Roman holiday with Troy Donahue and Suzanne pleshette . Al Martino had a hit with the song but I think I prefer the original from the film by Emilio Pericoli (had to cheat and look him up as forgotten his name)
Barbara Heathcote on 12 August 2025
Hi Andy you’ve just made my night. My Vic Damone but also Tony Martin and Andy Williams. All my fav artists. Thank you. I know Jack Jones is played often but have you ever played his dad Alan Jones singing Donkey Serenade? If you have sorry I missed it.
Nick Hingley on 12 August 2025
Just wondering if ‘Sukiyaki’ has been played today? It is one of the earliest songs I can remember.
I was reading a newspaper article about the world’s worst aeroplane disaster which occurred forty years ago today when a 747 crashed in Japan. Sadly, Kyu Sakamoto was amongst the victims.
Andrew Hunter on 12 August 2025
Hi. Just love The Seekers. Such beautiful harmonies and the voice of Judith Durham is fantastic!
Vanessa-Ann Dowsett on 12 August 2025
Thank you Andy for Jonathan and Darlene Edwards, they are so bad that it’s brilliant. Made my birthday morning x
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 13 August 2025
Belated birthday greetings. I’ve got your choice for my artist of the week coming up soon too!
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 29 August 2025
Hi Vanessa-Ann
I have your choice of Joe Brown as our artist of the week tomorrow morning from 3am!
Barry Williams on 11 August 2025
Listening to Andy tonight I thought his comment about commercial radio getting on his ‘Wick’ really struck a chord.
I recently spent a one hour journey with my son in his car. Of course he had the radio tuned to a well known commercial
station. After ten minutes I had to ask him to turn it off but instead he retuned to another couple of stations which were just as bad, thank goodness for Serenade ,which I tuned into immediately on my return home,…pure bliss!
Nick Hingley on 12 August 2025
My radio listening dates from the 1960s offshore pirates and Radio Luxembourg. The advertisements were an intrusion and a minor annoyance but understood as necessary to hear programming that wasn’t available elsewhere. On ILR there was originally a restriction on the number of minutes per hour but this would seem to have long gone along with the ban on sponsored programmes.
However, the major problem these days is the intense block booking of spots by a single advertiser. Listening to a station recently, the same ad was aired five times in an hour – as this started to become torture, I turned off. Of course, I could upgrade the technology to stream Serenade when driving – and it would probably triple the value of the car, too.
Suzy on 14 August 2025
Couldn’t agree more … Thank heavens for our Serenade Sanctuary away from weather forecasts that never apply to the skies above me, ‘selective’ news every half hour that I really don’t need to hear, travel reports about roads I’ll never travel and awful dumbed-down ads for stuff completely irrelevant to me and my life.
Suzy on 14 August 2025
P.S. Andy, please will you do Serenade TV, too?
Joanne Delacroix on 11 August 2025
For Simon McLean:
I’ve just discovered the remarkable Grady Martin And His Slew Foot Five. A definite addition to Music Box, if you can.
Simon McLean on 11 August 2025
Hi Joanne, thanks very much for alerting me – it’s a new name to me, but I’m listening to their version of My Blue Heaven now, and I think you’re right, definite Music Box material! There doesn’t appear to be a huge amount of their albums for sale in the UK, but I shall keep an eye out. Thanks again!
Anthony Corsini on 11 August 2025
I just love listening to Mark Steyn and his incredible knowledge of the birth of great songs.I listen in bed to his programme.,far too short,then beggars canr be choosers.Thsnks Mark you have save many a sleepless night.Of course not forgetting the whole team of Serenade Radio.The only app yo make sure REAL music still exsisted.Thank you.
Anthony Parkin on 10 August 2025
Doris Day Album of the Week…should be good. Released the year I was born. Crikey!😬
I suspect there can be very little of Doris I do not own within my own music library. Some are compilations others as they were released.
Another bonus being The Serenade music library does have many recordings I will never trace or be able to afford plus friendly voices.
Cheers
Tony on 9 August 2025
How great to have Simon back on the excellent Dinner at 8. Rushed home to catch the show…one of my Serenade faves
Simon, I feel I should be drinking a Dry Martini with an olive in it whilst listening to your show! Kind regards Tony
Nick Hingley on 10 August 2025
I try to arrange to sit down to my evening meal at 8pm on a Saturday and perhaps, for an hour, be transported to the days of Radio 390.
Simon McLean on 11 August 2025
Thank you – I feel I should be drinking a Dry Martini with an olive in it while presenting it, frankly!
Pete on 9 August 2025
Nice break from politics while mowing the lawn!!! Thanks Guys, Love to learn more about the old stuff.
Nancy on 9 August 2025
Not feeling my best this evening but then I started listening to A Little Night Music and WOW what a great first hour of listening pleasure! Not dancing around like Karen but just smiling happily. Great program Johnny Mac!
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 9 August 2025
Get well soon, Nancy. Serenade Radio is the perfect tonic, night and day!
Marcus from Michigan on 8 August 2025
That Neil Sedaka track really resonated and I agree with Sonia that the words are powerful. Liked the donut story too. Great shows on your station.
Sonia on 12 August 2025
Thank you Marcus -so nice to hear you’re enjoying Serenade in Michigan, the music and stories. Keep listening and spread the word.
Catherine B on 8 August 2025
Hi Andy, Couldn’t agree more about Sammy Davis Album of the Week, what a treat. Lovely to hear him singing softly, so different from what we normally hear. More please.
Ron Pearce on 6 August 2025
I can’t access John Hellings Jazz programme on Wednesday at 9.00 pm
Andy Marriott, Station Manager on 6 August 2025
Hi Ron,
I’m not sure how I can help. The website, phone app and Alexa are all working fine here!
How are you trying to listen?
Nick Hingley on 7 August 2025
I listened to John Hellings – never miss the programme – without problem* as it was broadcast yesterday evening but, of course, this doesn’t help you.
Your difficulty could be down to any of a few dozen reasons (or more), but in instances such as these, what would help is information as to how you were trying to, or normally, listen: phone app, internet radio, alexa wotsit, stream from website to computer, etc. Of course, if your internet service provider has an outage, several or none of these will work! However, perhaps whatever has happened has resolved itself.
* I was listening on a 16-year-old laptop computer which now uses the Linux operating system; driving a couple of nice though relatively cheap shelf speakers. (The internal battery is shot and so the laptop has to be plugged in to the mains if I want to listen for more than 15 minutes!)
Martyn Daye Doris Day Archive UK on 4 August 2025
Thanks for playing Disney Girls by Doris Day beautiful 1985 recording – play her version of Joni Mitchell’s Both Sides Now – sublime.
Julie Egan on 4 August 2025
Rest in peace, Jane Morgan, who has left us at the magnificent age of 101. A great life lived.
Nicholas on 3 August 2025
Cliff Adams arranged and performed on Sing Something Simple until his death in 2001.
Are you able to rebroadcast his/their last airing, and let us all know, that it is? I would love a heads up as to when the request may be granted and scheduled. I listen USA/EDT/EST Time. Sincerely, Thank You. I love BigBandSpecial as well !!! #MarkStyne )
Barbara on 3 August 2025
Love to listen to Sonia during weekday mornings! Love the stories she shares with us and great music! Brilliant radio station. At last we have ‘proper’ music we can enjoy. Thank you Serenade radio. Long may you broadcast !
Sonia Beldom on 8 August 2025
What a lovely message! Thank you and I’m so glad you’re enjoying the show and the lovely music we play. Keep listening. Sonia. X
Mark Eyre on 2 August 2025
Hello Simon, great to hear the return dinner at eight again, love the show, and music box too! All the best, Mark Eyre.
Simon McLean on 2 August 2025
Thank you, Mark – delighted to have you on board! I’ve found my copy of Central Park Parade by Syd Dale, by the way, I hope to get it on a future show, so keep an ear out!
David Small on 2 August 2025
Lovely to have you back Simon on a Saturday evening with your show Dinner at Eight with all your lovely selections of music instrumental
Simon McLean on 2 August 2025
Thank you, David – lovely to be back!
David Small on 2 August 2025
Thank you Roger and producer Paul for another brilliant selection of Dance Band music and I do like a bit of Charlie Kunz he was such a favourite of my grandad lots of years ago.
Paul Ruddock on 3 August 2025
Thanks for your kind words David.
I know I’ve said this before but Roger and I have such a hoot choosing the music each week, you’ll notice dear old Charlie Kunz and The Casani Club Orchestra often feature (and rightly so) – they were a favourite of Roger’s Mum too!
With my best wishes
Paul
Roger Williams on 3 August 2025
Hello David
Your positive comments will spur us on to ever greater heights – my introduction to this music was in Liverpool where I first heard Charlie Kunz on my grandparents HUGE radiogram! There was a fair old selection of 78s too in their air raid shelter under the rockery in their garden, happy days!
David Small on 2 August 2025
Thank you Adrian Jackson for some wonderful music from the musicals and thank you for including music from Martin Guerre a much under rated musical in my opinion. I just love all the music from that show and yoour tracks tonight brought back many happy memories when I saw the show live many years ago .
Fraser Sutherland on 2 August 2025
Mark Steyn’s ‘On the Town’:
Gosh that was good. Every single minute from beginning to end. And what a truly lovely tribute to Cleo Laine. Absolutely nothing ‘awry’ in these 60 minutes. The programme never fails. I can’t wait to hear the whole thing again at 5 am tomorrow. Thanks Mark Steyn.
Nancy on 2 August 2025
I totally agree with you Fraser.
Mark Steyn on 4 August 2025
Thank you so much, Nancy and Fraser. There’s so much good music out there – which sometimes surprises me. But what’s even more surprising is that Serenade is the only place you can hear it.
Nick Hingley on 4 August 2025
I enjoy these programmes immensely as I learn something new each week – usually several new things – plus there’s always plenty of Sinatra. The comment about being on a judging panel with Benny Green was interesting as I often think about his Sunday afternoon Radio 2 programme when listening to ‘On The Town’. And Steve Race: I got some stick at junior school when the teacher went around the class and I said I liked his music. “I asked about music; not rubbish!” she snorted.
When I think back on all the carp I learned at high school
It’s a wonder I can think at all
Thanks, Paul Simon (Kodachrome)
Nick Hingley on 2 August 2025
The Cliff Adams Chorale – Take, oh take those lips away
Thanks, Steve James, for resolving something that, for many a year, has been bugging me whenever I hear this tune: Used in a 1960s Guinness advertisement!
Martyn Bassey on 2 August 2025
Many thanks to Sean Usher for The Late Show, and to Johnny Mac for A Little Night Music. Fab! 👍👍
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 3 August 2025
Thank you, Martyn. Our two progs will be celebrating three years on SR later this month and you’re one of diamond listeners.
Martyn Bassey on 4 August 2025
Three years. Well done to you both.
Any chance of having Petula Clark as featured artiste some time in the future. Many thanks Johnny 👍
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 4 August 2025
I’ve added Pet to the list, Martyn! Might be in November as the list gets longer!
Karen on 2 August 2025
Great show this morning Johnny Mac. Good to hear Paul Anka as the artist if the week . If someone had told me before today he had done a cover of the cure I would never have believed it !
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 2 August 2025
Paul Anka’s 2005 album, ‘Rock Swings’, is well worth checking out, Karen.
Suzy on 2 August 2025
Johnny, why are you tucked away at three o’clock in the morning? Love, a sleepy stalwart x
Johnny Mac on 2 August 2025
Tis the best time of the day, Suzy, for us GEMS!
Nancy on 2 August 2025
Johnny’s show should at least be repeated, mystery years and all. But don’t take him away from my 8PM time slot!
Suzy on 2 August 2025
Ah yes, okay, Nancy, I can cope! zzzz
Nancy on 2 August 2025
Got the mystery year thanks to Olivia Newton-John. Also, that’s the first time I ever heard all the verses to ‘Thank You For Being a Friend’. Happy Friday evening to Johnny Mac and the GEMS!
Martyn Bassey on 2 August 2025
Same here. I only got 1978 when Johnny mentioned “Grease”. Happy Friday evening to you Nancy 😊
Trina Howden on 1 August 2025
Swingin’ Easy is great! Music is nice and I like Paul Ruddock’s style. Congrats on the new series.
James Pickering on 2 August 2025
Really glad you’re enjoying the show, Trina. Keep tuning in; the best is yet to come! Best wishes, James (producer) and Paul (presenter)
David Small on 31 July 2025
Enjoying this lovely series The Great London Theatres and this week the second part of The London Palladium the story is so well told by Helen Stevens and brilliantly written by Neil Anthony my only complaint is that the programme should be 60 minuites and not 30 minuites long
Neil Anthony on 3 August 2025
Thank you David
Barbara Heathcote on 31 July 2025
Just listening to Love is Strange and picturing Johnny and Baby dirty dancing
Dave in London on 29 July 2025
Lovely tunes heard in recent days. Bob Hope and Shirley Ross, The Pattersons, Roger Whittaker, Nancy Wilson, Joy Nichols.
But I have to ask: that screech lady Gloria Wood. Has she gone away now, never to return? Her idea of ‘easy listening’ and mine don’t seem to coincide. ‘Hey Bellboy’ suggests a time before anaesthetics were invented.
Apart from that it’s all a jolly good listen, thank you.
Steve in Worcs. on 31 July 2025
It’s a completely bizarre thing, isn’t it! Would love to hear more of her work.
Phil on 28 July 2025
Gosh Simon, that Tony Harrison tune ‘Holiday in Davos’ you’ve just played on Music Box sounds just like one of those incidental music pieces Barry Gray wrote for TV in the 60s. Great atmospheric piece.
Simon McLean on 28 July 2025
Yes, I definitely see the Barry Gray similarities now you’ve pointed it out! It’s a lovely tune from a very obscure album, and I love having the chance to bring it to a (slightly) wider audience
Steve in Worcs. on 28 July 2025
“The world’s greatest ever broadcaster” – and then plays My Father Had a Rabbit.
What an absolute star you are, Mr. Marriott! I am, of course, in complete agreement, I have Ray’s autobiography as well as Alma’s (“Management” 😊) and his CD. (Didn’t know until recently he was born in Birmingham.)
I wonder what our overseas listeners thought if todays “Twaddle”! Thank you, as always.
Suzy on 28 July 2025
What a joy it was to wake up to Ray and enjoy his unique, off-the-wall, sense of humour and genuine warmth before heading off to work. I imagine a lot of us avid Serenade listeners were his fans.
David Yarnall on 1 August 2025
Suzy it was the highlight of my broadcasting career to do a couple of handovers to Ray during one of my periods on Radio 2. I also had a couple of chats with him in his studio and he was a wonderful guy and very encouraging.
I remember those handovers with great excitement and at the time I couldn’t believe I was doing them.
Suzy on 1 August 2025
Well, how lovely you shared those precious memories with us, David. Thank you. That’s what’s so special about Serenade, isn’t it … we’re one big family connected by our memories of radio’s glory days and nostalgic for the top quality music from back then. I’m with you most days and often overnight too, enjoying your smooth voice and ease of presentation.
Nick Hingley on 2 August 2025
It was getting up at the crack of dawn in the late-1970s that I became a devotee of Ray Moore’s early morning programme on Radio 2. Although bang in the target demographic, I had already grown out of Radio One and was now living in an area where there was no ILR; plus reception of 1500m Long Wave was solid whereas medium wave somewhat variable, especially in the hours of darkness.
Ray got moved around the schedule a bit and I even remember him doing a late night Sunday show for a while – a strange position for him when I consider it now – but mornings suited him the best and he made early rising a pleasure. However, I can’t say I ever took part in a bog-eyed jog!
I found him great company, and he has to be one of the all-time best presenters, if not the best, in his field. It is good to find that people that worked with him found him every bit as pleasant as his radio persona.
Sadly, Ray was taken from us far too early.
His autobiography ‘Tomorrow is Too Late’ is an excellent read.
Reg Devonshire on 27 July 2025
Tom Lehrer has died aged 97. I’ll be humming ‘Poisoning Pigeons In The Park’ all week.
Steve in Worcs. on 27 July 2025
Wow! I thought he’d left us a while ago, that’s a full life. I didn’t realise he was a prominent mathematician also. Always remember him for The Elements. RIP, sir.
Nancy on 28 July 2025
‘Elements’ was my favorite – what a talent! Rest in peace Tom❤️
Nick Hingley on 26 July 2025
Nice to hear two of England’s greatest composers on The Television Show: Vaughan Williams’ Sixth Symphony as used for ‘Family at War’, and then an extract from Elgar’s Cello Concerto turning up as the theme to ‘Paradise Postponed’, a drama production of which I know nothing. I wonder if there is programme that has used George Butterworth’s ‘The Banks of Green Willow’ – bound to be…
“Who the heck is Eileen Heckart?” I was asking exactly the same question, as I often do with these ‘special guest stars’, so I had to do a search. According to Wikipedia: ‘Anna Eileen Heckart (née Herbert; March 29, 1919 – December 31, 2001) was an American stage and screen actress whose career spanned nearly 60 years.’ In fact she has a much longer entry than does Carol Rossen – one of the earlier ‘special guest stars’ in one of the other themes.
At least three outings in this series for ‘Man In a Suitcase’ but you can’t have too much of possibly the best action theme music of all time. My first-year French teacher must have been a fan as about the only thing I can remember of his lessons is a reference to ‘Un homme dans une valise’.
à la nouvelle année…
Barbara Heathcote on 26 July 2025
Hi Andy, thank you for playing Sucu Sucu, bet you were singing along with me 🤣. Already got one for the next series. Going to miss the programme on Saturday nights,
Barry Williams on 26 July 2025
Have really enjoyed “The TV Show” series with Mr Marriot, (Always good company). It makes me realise having listened on a weekly basis how much TV I must have watched all those years ago, I recocognised nearly every theme!
Thanks for a great series
Steve in Worcs. on 26 July 2025
Just wanted to echo Barry’s fine words of praise. I would imagine there is a very great deal of work putting the programme together, and it is very much appreciated. Being well struck in years, I remember seeing most of these as a kid, especially The Baron (Steve Forrest, brother of Dana Andrews), Man in a Suitcase (Richard Bradford was superbly “unconventional”), but a long standing favourite was Name of the Game – only 1 minute but superbly evocative. A shame they don’t release the series on DVD, even though it was thought “plodding” by most viewers at the time. Great job Mr.M. – thank you!
Nick Hingley on 27 July 2025
Sets of the perhaps lesser-remembered TV series of our era were being steadily tracked down and formatted for DVD by a company called Network. Most disappointingly, Network went out of business last year. Unfortunately, the DVD market is dying as the world is moving to online, but I prefer DVDs as it is too easy for online material to be ‘adjusted’ for the modern age (or, indeed, removed) by Winston Smith and his colleagues. (I prefer material as the author wrote it, and like to think that I am grown up enough to understand that some writing may be ‘of its time’; and to make my judgements accordingly.)
I have been fortunate to find Network series of Danger Man, Man In A Suitcase, and a few others. My last new purchase was their giant box of the complete series of black and white Maigret with Rupert Davies in the lead role – possibly Network’s last major release.
Technically, some of the transfers won’t cut the mustard on Cinemascope wall-mounted screens* popular today, but, hey!, when Maigret was being broadcast our household was watching it on a BBC only 12-inch Vidor telly, which often required a tweak of the horizontal hold control on the back of the cabinet…
* I don’t possess one – the best I can muster is an old Hitachi 24″ flat screen. (Certain members of the Serenade parish are likely to be able to view on CRT sets contemporary to the productions.)
Steve in Worcs. on 27 July 2025
Thanks, Nick. Yes I was aware of Network, a shame they ended- their range was prodigious. I’ve generally struck lucky in charity shops, and scored with the full set of Blackadder, “Yes, Minister”, and Band of Brothers in the last year or so. Hope springs eternal that I’ll find the full set of Hadleigh (new, it’s £95!) or Strangers (with the enigmatic Don Henderson). There was so much quality television to watch back in these days, and when you consider we didn’t get a 4th terrestrial channel until 1982….!
I am very much with you on DVD ownership. I gave up television 20 years ago, as I felt that I had seen the best I ever could by then, and time has proven me right. They had started not editing, but butchering films for television viewers, and I’m something of a purist (as the director or studio intended, please!). Streaming would be no different.
Here’s to trudging charity shops in the hope of finding a nice boxed set. 😊
Nick Hingley on 27 July 2025
Indeed, Steve, I am a regular trawler of charity shops and I found a Band of Brothers set on a visit to Worcester last year. I didn’t pay top whack for Maigret (Ebay) but feared it was such a late release that I would have to wait a long time to find one in a charity shop. My local charity shops can’t give away DVDs. Often they are three or five for a quid, and one puts them on display on a table outside – I think they are happy if some get stolen! There is an awful amount of dross but gems regularly turn up.
I keep an eye on Ebay for things of interest to me as they occasionally crop up.
I watch so little live TV that my recent licence renewal almost seems pointless, especially as my radio listening is dominated by Serenade – currently listening to Roger’s always excellent Soft Folkus – and stations that stream from far away. Perhaps such providers better deserve my licence spend – but let’s not get too far into controversial territory.
I love a wallow with an old programme on DVD. The past is a foreign country: and they do indeed do things differently there; but it’s for an hour or so it’s almost within touching distance once more.
Chris Hitchcock. Dublin . on 26 July 2025
Mark what a lovely chat you had with Alan Bergman, a gentleman of the old scholl . It revealed the gentle and generous side of Sinatra and his love for composers. His suggestion to Tony to record “How do you keep the music Playing” showed his admiration for his friend . Tony has made it his own closing number always leading to a standing innovation. You have been very lucky to have interviewed all 0f the great composers and in sharing those memorable moments with the listeners of Serenade Radio. I realise that most have passed on to the Great Concert Hall in the Sky. Please continue to share these moments with us for as long as you able to.
Mark Steyn on 27 July 2025
Thank you, Chris. I can’t claim to have much in common with Sinatra, other than that I was married to Ava Gardner for a couple of years. But, aside from that, we did both love songwriters and arrangers – and I so admire the way that, on stages all over the world, he gave credit to so many of them over the years. Wish more singers would do that.
David Small on 26 July 2025
Swingin’ Easy Thank you Paul for a great start to the series and a lovely selection of music last night . Can’t wait for the rest of the series to hear the music that you have selected .
Paul Ruddock on 26 July 2025
Thank you David for your kind message, it’s hugely appreciated and I’m really happy to know you enjoyed the music.
James, who produces the show and I will endeavour to keep you just as entertained for the coming weeks with more upbeat, uptempo tunes.
With my best wishes
Paul
David Small on 26 July 2025
The Great London Theatres – I very interesting programme and well presented Love all the musicals and history of the theatres , Looking forward to the rest of the series .
PHILIP HALL on 26 July 2025
It was so refreshing to get constant dreamy jazzy music, but now I find when ever I tune in it seems to be eighties pop songs. Have you changed your music model,or am I tuning in at the wrong time. If so could you advise me as to the best time to listen. This is not a rant,as l used to love your station and I want it to continue. Thanks, Philip Hall.
Andy Marriott, Station Manager on 26 July 2025
Hi Philip,
I would suggest that you are tuning in to our ONLY pop show, Saturday mornings 10-12. Jeff Owen presents some of the more gentle songs from the 60s, 70s and very occasionally the 80s. Virtually every other hour of every day is pop-free!
Andy Grahamme on 26 July 2025
Steve James….listening to Saturday early show as always. Just amazing..your appreciation and knowledge of the music you feature never ceases to amaze me. Thanks for a brilliant programme..on Saturday night and Sunday.morning too. Richard Harris and Frances Gall this morning were just a breath of fresh air!
Martyn Bassey on 26 July 2025
Many thanks to Sean Usher and Johnny Mac for two great shows on The Night Shift. Also enjoyed hearing three songs from the wonderful Bobbie Gentry. 👍👍
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 28 July 2025
Thank you, Martyn. Bobbie may have retired from the music business many years ago, but this is why Serenade Radio is such a gem in celebrating these singers.
Richard Crookshanks on 26 July 2025
I’ve just heard Johnny Mac mention the passing of Dame Cleo Laine. What a legend! Oh, a lady of the ages. Rest in peace.
Nancy on 26 July 2025
I always loved Gordon Lightfoot’s voice and style. I attended his concert about 10 years ago and he was in such a ruined state physically and vocally – putting him onstage was an act of elder abuse. Ah well, here at SR he is forever young and talented!
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 28 July 2025
Gordon was such a wonderfully talented tunesmith. Even Bob Dylan admired him!
Nancy on 25 July 2025
Sonia Beldom’s program plays in my corner of paradise from 3 – 5 PM. I believe my cooking skills have reached a higher standard since tuning in😄 Lovely mix of music!
Sonia Beldom on 25 July 2025
How lovely to hear that you’re enjoying the music and improving your cooking skills! What delights did you cook up today? Keep listening and enjoying Setenade. Sonia x
Nancy on 26 July 2025
We just finished dinner – sea scallops, rockfish, and clams in a spicy red Spanish sauce with sourdough bread. Husband is very blessed😇
Karen on 25 July 2025
Thoroughly enjoyed the new series Swinging Easy with Paul Ruddock . Great choice of music and the presenter wasn’t bad either! ( only joking Paul!) Looking forward to the rest of the series very much.
Roger Williams on 26 July 2025
Agree, a great start to a super series.
R
Paul Ruddock on 26 July 2025
Thank you Roger,
I’m learning from one of the best (you!)
P
Paul Ruddock on 26 July 2025
That’s so kind Karen, thank you and glad you enjoyed!
If there’s anything in your particular you’d like to hear in a future show just let us know and my producer James and I will do our best to feature it.
Again, thank you!
Paul
Vanessa-Ann Dowsett on 24 July 2025
Thank you for this new series The Great London theatres, this week has been The London Palladium , It’s excellent. Looking forward to the rest of the series
Neil Anthony on 25 July 2025
Thanks for your kind words Vanessa. Lots more good stuff to come. Hope you enjoy the rest of this series.
Edgar on 24 July 2025
“Serenata” by Nat King Cole has the greatest ending. He is always so good by himself but almost always accompanied by the finest musicians.
Clive Barker on 23 July 2025
Sorry Sonia – The Emerald wedding Anniversary is not the 90th but the 55th which my wife and I have just celebrated. The 90th is granite
Sonia Beldom on 24 July 2025
Thank you Clive for the correction and congratulations ! I suppose that a new kitchen worktop on your 90th wedding anniversary could be nice. Keep listening and enjoying the music and all feedback and corrections always appreciated. Sonia x
Dave in London on 22 July 2025
Andy played Eartha Kitt’s “C’est si bon” today (Tues), mentioning its marmite qualities.
Hers is certainly a definitive interpretation with full marks awarded for originality and fun. But the thing is that grammatical error which sits there waiting to pounce each time. She says “la semaine prochain” instead of “la semaine prochaine”. Argggg!
Is it just me?
Edgar on 21 July 2025
“Just listen to modern music.” No, let’s not.
Alice Manetta on 20 July 2025
Hello Peter Tomlinson,
You ask where the Big Bands have gone. I’m delighted to say that the Syd Lawrence Orchestra are still very much up and running. A couple of months ago I went to a fabulous performance by them at my lovely local theatre here in Chelmsford. Sunday matinée and I have to admit the average age was (ahem), like me, slightly over 21 but it was virtually sold out and everyone had a whale of a time. So all is not lost!
Keep up the good work on Serenade
Suzy on 20 July 2025
Thank you for sharing your remaining Twiglets, Ed. Yes, you do spoil us dawn choristers! 😅
Barry Williams on 19 July 2025
Sorry to hear that Andy’s TV show series is ending soon. I’ve enjoyed every episode. Many thanks Andy and thankfully
I have your daily show to look forward to each day.
All the best Barry
David Small on 19 July 2025
Thank you Roger for another splended edition of The Dance Band Days the music just gets better and Better every week ypi just make my Saturday Night and I loved the Al Bowlly recording . Thank you David
Paul Ruddock on 20 July 2025
Hello David
It’s so lovely knowing that you enjoy Dance Band Days. It’s a real hoot putting the show together with Roger each week.
The Ambrose track with Al Bowlly vocals was a very recent addition to the gram library here at SR, and as soon as I heard it I knew we had to feature it!
If you’ve any suggestions or requests for future shows, do let us know.
Keep listening and thank you again for your support.
With my best wishes
Paul Ruddock
Producer – Dance Band Days
Roger Williams on 20 July 2025
Thank you David, the show has benefitted so much from Paul’s involvement and the whole caboodle has freshened up beautifully thanks to his excellent work. We’ll no doubt carry on until we’re told to stop. And Paul’s own show is going to be an absolute delight when it takes to the air at the end of this week.
Malcolm Scott on 19 July 2025
Cindy, you have just made my day! Having a little afternoon tea bash with the boys, more gin than tea! You as background music which caused conversation, I think new listeners have been found! Who is this presenter asks one, oh the alka seltzer lady I reply, you then perfectly play you and your old gang! It dawned on one of my older chums with a decent musical knowledge why you have that nickname in my house, we are still giggling! Thanks for a great show!
Cindy Kent on 19 July 2025
Glad to bring a smile! Great station, isn’t it? Keep spreading the word 😊
Martyn Bassey on 19 July 2025
Fabulous edition of A Little Night Music. Many thanks Johnny Mac and Happy Birthday for yesterday 🎂👍
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 19 July 2025
Thank you, Martyn. July seems to be a bumper month of birthdays for Serenade DJs!
Nancy on 19 July 2025
Warm Montana birthday blessings to you Johnny!🍾
Suzy on 19 July 2025
Yes, belated Happy Birthday greetings, Johnny, our GEMS-meister. You’re so young!
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 20 July 2025
Thank you, Suzy! Every day, a new ache and pain. Ageing can drive you insane!
Nancy on 19 July 2025
Beach Boys – a super choice for tonight Johnny. I grew up on Long Island and never dreamed I’d live near the Pacific Ocean, yet our family moved to one of the big surf towns (Santa Cruz) where I lived for 20 years. Beautiful 70’s beach town. Anyway, great stuff in the first hour Mr. Mac!
Johnny Mac on 19 July 2025
Thank you, Nancy. You’ve been coast to coast!
Barbara Heathcote on 18 July 2025
Andy you’ve just made my night playing Vic Damone Affair to Remember. Thanks again.
Barbara Heathcote on 18 July 2025
Bob Newhart introducing tobacco to civilisation is absolutely hilarious. Great to hear it again. Thanks Andy.
Mark Farlow on 18 July 2025
Really interesting shows and Series you have. Like the old style Radio 2. Great Nostalgia 👍
Victoria Butterfield on 18 July 2025
So sad to hear of the passing of Alan Bergman, at the grand age of 99. He wrote the songs of our lives.
Karen on 18 July 2025
I enjoyed the programme about the Mike Sammes Singers very much. Following on from the lovely weekly series , it was great to hear Mike talk about the music and to realise just how many songs and artists they were involved with, in addition to their own music, over the years.
Thank goodness Serenade Radio gives them the recognition they deserve. Thank you for this little gem
Barbara Heathcote on 17 July 2025
Just read that Connie Francis has passed away. Perhaps album of the week some time please
Anthony Parkin on 17 July 2025
A big part of popular music history. It did sound as though she was very ill when she was rushed into hospital. 😔 We have a wealth of music to continue to enjoy.
Nancy on 17 July 2025
87 years old. Rest in peace dear lady⚘♥️
Anthony Parkin on 17 July 2025
A senior moment. Sonia played her first song from The album of the week of Carmen McCrea singing songs composed by Noel Coward.
I thought what😲
Why?
I was thinking Carmen Miranda. 🤣
Sonia Beldom on 17 July 2025
That’s funny. It’s a great album isn’t it? Such an interesting set of interpretations. Enjoy the other tracks. Sonia x
Neil Hewitt on 16 July 2025
What a fantastic collection of Serenade Spotlights this afternoon from Mr Darvall! The Mike Sammes Singers, George Formby and, of course, Pinky & Perky, which really did make me smile and cheer up my afternoon no end! Thank you John! Neil.
Barbara Heathcote on 16 July 2025
I’m listening to the Legend of the Glass Mountain. Fabulous composition. Watched the film earlier today.
Barry Williams on 16 July 2025
Just got home from work after being stuck in traffic for nearly two hours feeling hot and bothered. Turned on Serenade and was just in time to hear three George Formby classics, absolutely brilliant. Feeling better already . Thanks
John
Nick Hingley on 16 July 2025
I heard a song ‘New Love’ by Diane Solomon on Sonia’s show a few nights ago. This recording intrigued me as I can’t remember hearing it before and I knew little or nothing about the singer. However, it had the kind of tempo, stops, starts and changes that I think would have gone/would go down very well on the Northern Soul scene. Doing an internet search the only reference I can find to it is that it was a single released on Philips label in 1974. This would make sense as it was around this time that, for a short while, the Northern Soul scene emerged blinking in the daylight from its mysterious underground, and favourites – usually ten or more year old re-releases of deleted records that had never made it in the US, let alone had a release over here – plus new compositions in the style, if a little more pop-orientated, and some of which ‘blue eyed’, were making it into the charts. (There was also the utterly forgettable and cringingly bad ‘Footsie’ by Wigan’s Chosen Few…)
I also learned from my search that Diane had had a TV Series on BBC 1 in 1975 and an appearance on Morecambe & Wise so clearly a was a much higher profile artiste than realise. However, I was barely around a TV in those times; and, frankly, not a lot has changed as these days I hear more TV theme music on Andy’s show than I ever do via the box!
sonia beldom on 17 July 2025
Hi Nick – wonderful research. Thank you. Sonia x
Barbara Heathcote on 16 July 2025
Sent a small donation in thanks to you all for a fantastic radio station.
Anders & Juliette on 16 July 2025
A friend recommended Serenade and we just found the app. Great music and friendly voices. We have a factory and we all like Serenade while we work. No advertisements. Great.
Roger Williams on 16 July 2025
Thank you for finding us and letting us know. he app works really well doesn’t it?
Roger
Dave in London on 15 July 2025
Any chance of a repeat of Roger’s Bastille Day prog please Monsieur Marriot? Especially for those of us who, um, forgot to tune in for its Monday outing. The weeping and gnashing of teeth which resulted was something to behold.
Martyn Bassey on 14 July 2025
I was looking forward to the Bastille Day show, and I was not disappointed. Fabulous French songs. Merci beaucoup Roger! 🇫🇷 👍
Roger Williams on 14 July 2025
Hello Martin, I’m pleased you liked the programme. I very much enjoyed putting it together and it made me want to get on Eurostar and head across the Channel…. I’ll just make do with a glass of Vin Rouge. Thank you for listening, it means a lot.
Roger
Nick Hingley on 14 July 2025
Bastille Day: Serenade Radio provides yet more variety and melodic music you won’t hear anywhere else.
Roger Williams on 14 July 2025
Thank you Nick, it was a bit of a novelty wasn’t it? I very much enjoyed putting it together – thank you for listening and Vive La Difference!
Nick Hingley on 16 July 2025
Je vous en prie!
Barry Williams on 14 July 2025
Great Bastille day prog tonight, a very enjoyable mix fro Roger.
The kind of thing that dear old Desmond Carrinton used to do on Radio 2.
Roger Williams on 14 July 2025
Hello Barry, thank you for your kind comments – as you’ll have gathered I have a lot of affection for French music and it was fun putting the show together.
Thank you for listening
Roger
Gordon on 14 July 2025
We loved Roger’s homage to French music in his Bastille Day special. Already looking forward to next year’s offering.
Roger Williams on 14 July 2025
Gordon! Thank you for your kind comments- I’m pleased you enjoyed the show. It was great fun putting it together. Thank you for listening and give my regards to Annette.
Now you’ve found Serenade Radio maybe try some of our other shows too?
Roger
Andy Parker on 14 July 2025
Really enjoy the music on Serenade and thank you for playing “areal live bit@. Haven’t heard that for ages and Sonia’s love for the music shows that Serenade presenters know good music.
Sonia Beldom on 15 July 2025
Yes Andy – “A real live girl” is a great song. Thanks for your message.
Ian C on 13 July 2025
Two hours of sheer delight on a sultry Summer Saturday night from Kevin Taylor. Superb swing sets and tempos transformed ! I particularly enjoyed the Clark Sisters “Sweet Summer Blues”, together with the Norman Candler arrangement of “Vincent” and the Brazilian duo’s rendition of “Stardust”. The silky smooth tones of the inimitable Nat King Cole, Patti Paige and Satchmo’s topping off the show with “Keep on Smiling” were addditional highlights.
Great listening !
Dave in London on 13 July 2025
And if I heard correctly above the noise of my neighbours’ garden party then let’s wish Kevin a very happy “significant event” as he just called it. Thanks so much Kevin for all of the time that you dedicate to making Saturday and Sunday evenings a highly enjoyable Serenade listen every weekend.
Kevin Taylor on 14 July 2025
Thanks Dave! Celebrating 60 years today. Cheers!
Steve in Worcs. on 14 July 2025
Sixty! You look and sound about 35! Haha!
Very Happy Birthday to you, Kevin, and thanks for your superb programmes.
Kevin Taylor on 14 July 2025
Many thanks Steve! I’ll take the compliment. 🙂 So glad you’re enjoying the programmes on Serenade Radio!
Kevin Taylor on 14 July 2025
Thank you Ian for the lovely comments. So glad you enjoyed the shows and musical programming this weekend!
Franky on 12 July 2025
From the oldest city of Holland, we say you are the best!
Nancy on 12 July 2025
What a good program tonight Johnny Mac! Great mystery year music (got the last one!), great artists (Norah Jones, Gene Pitney), and a host who puts it all together so well each week!
Martyn Bassey on 13 July 2025
I always look forward to A Little Night Music with Johnny Mac. Fab show on Saturday morning once again. Thanks for picking Gene Pitney. Super choice 👍
Nancy on 12 July 2025
Gene Pitney had such a distinctive voice! ’24 Hours From Tulsa’ is one of my favorites. What a treat Johnny – thank you!
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 12 July 2025
You’re very welcome, Nancy. Glad you enjoyed your pick of Gene Pitney as my artist of the week. I saw him in a memorable concert many moons ago.
Rose Kirkwall on 11 July 2025
I dread the hot nights and lack of sleep but will be tuned into the Sean Usher and Johnny Mac shows, right through to the calmness and serenity of Ed Wellman on Saturday morning. Thank you, Serenade.
Nancy on 12 July 2025
Hi Rose, hope you get relief from the heat soon! We had awful heat this past week – and it’s really unfair when you consider our winter temperatures can get as low as -30 degrees Celsius. Ah well, Johnny Mac’s program is pretty cool!
Judy Albutt on 10 July 2025
Just wanted to share a musical smile, where I live in Gloucestershire the temperature is already scorching hot and what have they just played on Music While you Work – Walking in a Winter Wonderland!,,😂
Love Serenade Radio!
Brian Reynolds on 10 July 2025
Ah! – but when it was originally broadcast in January 1966, it was quite appropriate.
Ian Simmonds (Norfolk) on 6 July 2025
Great programme Roger (as always!) and special thanks for including Donovan’s ‘Wear Your Love Like Heaven’ – it was really good to hear it again.
Roger Williams on 7 July 2025
Hello Ian
There’s something quite indefinably special about Wear Your Love Like Heaven isn’t there? Thank you for your kind comments and for spending your Sunday evening with Serenade Radio.
Roger
David tinson on 6 July 2025
Roger Williams
Thanks for a great show last week
Can I post suggestions on here?
Guy Clark LA Freeway…John hurt My creo bell
Tom Paxton..
Cheers
Roger Williams on 7 July 2025
Hello David
Good to hear from you again. Yes, fine to make suggestions here. I’ll pop them in my book. I’m delighted you’re enjoying Soft Folkus, thank you for listening!
Roger
Karen on 6 July 2025
Thank you Adrian for playing One Day More. My favourite song from any musical, I could never hear it too much. That last but one note… as loud as possible on the alexa…never fails to give me goosebumps.
Adrian Jackson on 10 July 2025
Thank you Karen, Anne, Nancy, David, Andrew for your kind comments and indeed for the Birthday greetings. Hope you’ll join me again on Saturday for Showstoppers . All the best to you. Adrian
Anne Crowcroft on 5 July 2025
Many thanks for a great show, especially hearing Martin Guerre again. Went a few times to see the original show. Great production with fantastic music, always got a good reception with standing ovation. Wishing you a lovely sixieth birthday too Adrian Jackson.
Nancy on 5 July 2025
Before today I’d always thought of Imelda Staunton as an actress of great talent but never knew her as a musical actress. WOW. So now I’m going to look for her performance in ‘Gypsy and more.
Thanks for giving me the gift of your knowledge and expertise Adrian Jackson! Happy blessed birthday to you!
David Small on 5 July 2025
Thank you for a lovely programme “Showstoppers” Adrian Some lovely tracks tonight including one of my favourite Martin Guerre, A very Happy 60th Birthday to you for today Hope that you have a lovely celebration on this special day
Andrew Hunter on 5 July 2025
Happy 60th birthday Adrian. I hope it is a super day and that the party is phenomenal! Thank-you for spoiling us with some of your personal favourites.
Judy Albutt on 5 July 2025
I was overjoyed when Music While you Work came on air yesterday morning 4th July featuring the wonderful Syd Lawrence Orchestra! Became a fan of this Orchestra in 1969/1970 and have lost count of the places I have been to enjoy their playing! Half an hour of complete nostalgia and a few emotional tears too! Thank you Serenade Radio for this! Such an amazing radio station, love it!
Martyn Bassey on 5 July 2025
Two fabulous shows with Sean Usher and Johnny Mac this morning. Great music as always. Many thanks to you both 👍👍
Johnny Mac on 6 July 2025
Thank you, Martyn. Glad you’re still tuning in as one of our regular Great Early Morning Stalwarts 💎
Vanessa-Ann Dowsett on 5 July 2025
Thank you Jonny for seeing me through another sleepless night. I do love your programme and look forward to this every Saturday morning. Managed two mini mystery years this week May I suggest Joe Brown for artist of the week unless he has been featured before. Have a great weekend to you and all Serenaders.
Johnny Mac on 5 July 2025
Thank you, Vanessa-Ann. You’re always welcome to A Little Night Music. And, I’ve added the brilliant Joe Brown to the list!
Nancy on 3 July 2025
I love Marty Feldman. No one like him. Great twaddle.
Andy Grahamme on 3 July 2025
Andy Marriott…the music this morning was just unbeatable…a who’s who of the finest vocal talent…Jo Stafford…Matt..Vic Damone..Jack Jones..Steve Lawrence..Ella..Frank..Dinah Shore…Mel Torme. .and so much more…just brilliant…thankyou!
Flora & Jamie on 1 July 2025
Great entertainment and lovely music tonight. Compliments to Sonia and her bubbly style. Listening in Florida. We’re new and like the station a lot. No ads !!!
Sonia Beldom on 1 July 2025
How lovely to hear that you’re listening from Florida, Flora and Jamie. And thank you for your lovely comments. Yes, we love no ads, no interruptions, just great music and chat. Tell all your friends x
Barry Williams on 29 June 2025
Great show from Mr Steyn tonight. A wonderful tribute to one of the most joyous songs and film sequences of all time, namely, ‘Singin’ in the Rain’. Thanks for making my day and best wishes to all at Serenade. Barry
Dave in London on 29 June 2025
Hi Simon (McLean),
Having a sort out in a forgotten corner of the music shelves here and re-found these ones marked as missing for many years. Wondered if they might be a suitable style for Musicbox if you haven’t already played them.
Tol & Tol — ‘Recuerdos de la Alhambra’, ‘The Windjammer’, ‘A Passage to India’.
Nicolas de Angelis — ‘Les Roses Rouges de Cordoue’, ‘L’Espagnole’.
All the best and thanks for the Musicboxes.
Simon McLean on 29 June 2025
Hi Dave, thanks for these suggestions – all completely new names to me, I shall see if I can find them anywhere and have a listen!
Thanks again!
Dave in London on 29 June 2025
No problem Simon. Feel free to let me know if you do need help with the obtaining.
Catherine B on 29 June 2025
Hi Steve – Thanks for the Bernard Cribbins Winklepicker Shoes song just now. Made us both laugh, don’t think either of us had ever heard it before. Other half said he’d had a pair and they were horrible: “Ever tried going upstairs in Winklepickers?”
Steve James on 29 June 2025
Hi Catherine, yes that little gem is tucked away on the b-side of ‘Hole In The Ground’. I’ve always liked it and I’m glad it tickled you too. Amazingly, Winklepicker shoes seem to be still available in specialist shoe shops, if you ever fancy treating your other half to a new pair!
Martyn Bassey on 28 June 2025
Some of my favourite themes on The TV Show this evening, especially Mission Impossible, The Monkees, Edgar Wallace, and The Sentimental Agent. Many thanks 👍
Suzy on 28 June 2025
Thank you so much for that perfect choice for my request, Cindy. ‘Love is More Than Words’ – such a beautiful song, that’s even more special because you wrote it. x
Cindy Kent on 28 June 2025
You’re very welcome! Glad you enjoyed it. It’s a great station, isn’t it? I feel very Blessed to be part if it. 😊
Karen on 28 June 2025
Hi johnny. I have a suggestion for artist of the week. The Puppini Sisters. They are of course modern singers who sing our kind of music, and I have rather liked them since I first heard them on your show some months ago.
Johnny Mac on 28 June 2025
Great suggestion for A Little Night Music, Karen. Yes, I’ll add them to the list. Hope your garden is now well watered!
Robert Delacroix on 28 June 2025
Nice to hear a tribute to Lalo Schifrin in the early hours this morning.
Mission Impossible? Not to Serenade Radio!
Barbara Heathcote on 26 June 2025
Hi Andy, been feeling a bit off it last few days but you cheered me up by playing the Purple People Eater. Had been intending to request it. Thank you
Richard Whittingham on 26 June 2025
New listener from Holland-on-Sea Essex , Thank you too all the presenters ,amazing radio station , music from my childhood , we listen to nothing else now , 6am to 11pm .
John Turner on 25 June 2025
Brand new listener here in Shrewsbury, Shropshire. I found you through a mention in Bing magazine (the magazine of International Club Crosby). Love the music. Long may it continue!
Ryan on 25 June 2025
Wanted to say a few kind words for David Yarnall, my favorite Serenade presenter. Always enjoy the warm welcome to your couple of hours each morning. Morning, since I’m in the US and your show is my ‘breakfast/morning’ show if you will. Cheers!
David Yarnall on 28 June 2025
Hi Ryan. Thank you very much for your kind words and I am so glad you enjoy my programme. Got to be worth a mention soon I would have thought!
Manny Delfont on 23 June 2025
Sonya’s a breath of fresh air. Great music, fun stories. Thanks Keith for recommending her show. Always listen to you on a Sunday evening.
Sonia Beldom on 23 June 2025
Hi Manny, How lovely to get your note. Thank you for listening in and keep enjoying the lovely music. We all love Kevin’s show too ( I think you may have meant Kevin Taylor who broadcasts from Palm Springs ).
Suzy on 23 June 2025
Hello Cindy. I’d love to hear you play your favourite Settlers song please?! One you always enjoyed singing. I’m spoilt for choice so can’t choose which myself. Thank you for your wonderfully varied and upbeat programme.
Cindy Kent on 27 June 2025
Thank you for this – never been known to turn down a request like this, listen I tomorrow to hear which one I’ve chosen. Around about 3.45 😊 Happy listening
Suzy on 27 June 2025
Coo, thank you, Cindy. That’s exciting. Looking forward to hearing which it is. x
Anne Crowcroft on 22 June 2025
Great show as always Mark! Enjoyed your selection of songs and chat to celebrate Don’s Black’s birthday yyesterday.
Mark Steyn on 27 June 2025
Thank you, Anne. When I first met Don, he was the young lyricist all the much older composers – like Jule Styne – wanted to work with. Now he’s older than Jule was back then, and all the much younger composers want to work with him. An amazing man.
Nancy on 22 June 2025
Thank you for playing my request Cindy Kent! Love your show ♥️
Nancy on 21 June 2025
Another lovely Showstoppers with Adrian Jackson! I’m a fairly new listener and I wonder if the musical ‘Zorba’ is in your stock of Broadway magic? I was fortunate to see Anthony Quinn in a revival of ‘Zorba’ in San Francisco in the 1980’s. Thanks for my Saturday late morning treat Adrian!
Adrian on 22 June 2025
Thank you for your kind comments Nancy. I’m delighted you’re enjoying Showstoppers.
I will certainly feature music from ‘Zorba’ in a future programme. Thanks for listening
Catherine B on 21 June 2025
Thank you Mark for yet another totally unmissable show. Many happy returns of the day to the great Don Black, a legend. The first two tracks from Matt Munro set the standard for these songs – wonderful.
Mark Steyn on 27 June 2025
Thank you, Catherine. Matt Monro singing Don Black is about as good as it gets. I don’t know if I’ve mentioned this on air, but Richard Carpenter told me a few years back that his sister’s favourite voice was Matt Monro’s – and I can sort of hear that in her own voice.
Andrew Hunter on 21 June 2025
Hi Adrian. I am tuned in and looking forward to your show 🙂
Anne Crowcroft on 21 June 2025
Many thanks for the lovely birthday spotlight on Don Black. Also for the lovely to tribute to Arthur Hamilton, who was coincidentally Don’s friend.
Johnny Mac on 21 June 2025
Thank you, Anne, for tuning into A Little Night Music. Arthur’s legacy is intact, and Don, well, he’s a living legend.
Joe on 21 June 2025
I couldn’t sleep with the heat, so listened in the early hours. Sean Usher was such a charmer, Johnny celebrated Don Black on his 87th birthday today, and then Ed – the calming voice of the dawn.
Janet Reygan on 21 June 2025
It’s Saturday morning at 08:43. I’ve been listening since 05:30. It’s just one good song after another. I’m supposed to be choosing five songs for a U3A Rock and Pop group on Wednesday. I thought I’d made my choices – now I need a rethink. I’m overwhelmed!
Johnny Mac on 21 June 2025
Thank you for your message, Janet, and I hope a song or two from my show, A Little Night Music, makes the cut!
Karen on 21 June 2025
Another great ‘a little night music’ with Johnny Mac. Always worth waking up in the middle of the night for .!
Nancy on 21 June 2025
More Gene Pitney please! What a unique artist he was.
Nancy on 21 June 2025
Nice second mystery year trio of songs Johnny. You put together a very entertaining program, just a great blend of classic music and artists!
Martyn Bassey on 20 June 2025
I really enjoy listening to the brass band music on From The Bandroom every Friday evening. Many thanks 👍
Andy Grahamme on 20 June 2025
Never miss Stuart Linnell on a Saturday afternoon. Fantastic programme. Sheer class..Stuart puts a lot of work into this 3 hours and it shows…terrific music and presentation.. Its high time this programme won an award for being one of the best shows on air right now.
Barbara Heathcote on 20 June 2025
Hi Andy, I wonder if the Clap Clap song would be a good bit of nonsense. 369 the goose drank wine the monkey chewed tobacco etc are not exactly normal words in a song. Catchy tune though.
Chris Bocock on 19 June 2025
Good morning Sonia. I’m sure that you know the musicians’ definition of “Perfect Pitch” – it’s the ability to throw a banjo 50 yards so that it goes down an old mineshaft without touching the sides!
Do keep up with the banjo/bagpipe/drummer jokes, they’re great.
Best wishes
Chris Bocock
Nick Hingley on 19 June 2025
I once worked in a pit that was worked out and being closed. There was an old baby grand piano in a room next to the canteen and baths. We threw it down one of the shafts and it hit the bottom with a thud. It still played but only in A flat miner.
I’ll just get me coat…
Steve in Worcs. on 20 June 2025
A certain Mr. K. Bruce once described a gentleman as someone who knew how to play the banjo, but didn’t!
Also, how do you know when a banjo player is at your front door? He’s got the wrong key and doesn’t know when to come in!
Finally, what do you call a beautiful woman on the arm of a banjo player? Yep, a tattoo 😁
Have a great weekend everyone!
Sonia Beldom on 20 June 2025
Ha ha yes ! Don’t worry – there will be C plenty more musician jokes! Great to know you’re listening and enjoying the show. Sonia
Sonia Beldom on 20 June 2025
Thanks for listening Chris Bocock . More silliness to follow. Sonia
Jonathan Shirley on 18 June 2025
Kevin Taylor presents probably the best radio show ever — every Saturday and Sunday at 9pm. His taste in music is exceptional, often including some of my personal favourites like “Sukiyaki”, Anne Shelton’s lovely version of “Tangerine”, and the irresistible “Summer Samba” by Roger Williams.
This show is a truly outstanding journey through the Great American Songbook — beautifully curated, full of charm, and not to be missed!
Barbara Heathcote on 17 June 2025
Hi Andy. Always look forward to your programme every evening. Great to hear Roger Miller tonight. King of the Road is one of my favourite songs of his. Not heard my Vic Damone lately though. ☹️. Please can you play him soon. Thank you.
Cindy Kent on 16 June 2025
Hi. Cindy Kent here – if you would like a dedication in my show on Saturday between 3 and 5 – please send me the details to my email address cindy @ serenade-radio.com (without the spaces) and I’ll do my best to play it. Thanks. 😊
Sonia Beldom on 16 June 2025
Hi Lena. We are coming to Sweden in “Around The World in 80 Songs” on Wednesday! I’m keeping it a secret for now, so you will have a nice surprise when you tune in.
Lena Jespersen on 16 June 2025
Are you coming to Sweden for 80 Songs Around the World? Will it be ABBA? Or something original and interesting?
Catherine B on 15 June 2025
Thank you Stuart for playing a lovely version of We’ll Gather Lilacs by Vince Hill. Don’t think I’ve heard him sing this before, but what a treat, he had such a great voice and it suited this song beautifully.
Suzy on 14 June 2025
Every week I marvel at Mark Steyn’s vast knowledge of nostalgic songs and his anecdotes of all the top composers, lyricists and singers he has personally known that he shares with us. (Not least how he finds the time to do it!) A wonderful insight into many popular songs from Serenade’s playlist. Thank you, Mark.
Mark Steyn on 16 June 2025
Thank you, Suzy. Without these songwriters, Serenade would not be possible: They wrote songs not just that one person sang in 1973 or 1957 or whenever, but that hundreds and hundreds of people want to sing for decade after decade. It’s a real pleasure to play them each week/
Nancy on 14 June 2025
What a great hour of music from Adrian Jackson – bravo!
Adrian on 14 June 2025
Thank you for your kind comment Nancy, I’m delighted you enjoyed Showstoppers. Hope you’ll join me again next week, All the best to you. Adrian
Redmond on 14 June 2025
Another beautiful morning of listening on Serenade from Sean to Johnny to Ed, proving the warmth of the wireless can’t be beaten.
Karen on 12 June 2025
Sammes’ Songs has been a lovely series. It’s great not just to hear the songs but also to hear Mike Sammes introducing them and to realise just how many artists they worked with is astounding . It is good that they are given the prominence they deserve on Serenade Radio.
Jean-paul on 10 June 2025
Hello, Just to say I love this station love very much. The music on here without any interuptions such as adverts, and less chat. Thank you
Steven on 9 June 2025
Good morning Sonia. I enjoy your program. Loved your story this morning, (about Noel Coward and your playing his piano) I wonder if anyone in Jamaica, has a plan to restore his piano? Please know the wonderful music, you, and your colleagues play. Help to make it possible for old men, liked me. To continue to fight the good fight. Despite having lost my beloved wife to Dementia ten years ago. May God continue to bless you and your family with health and happiness.
Sonia on 11 June 2025
Dear Steven. Lovely to know that you’re enjoying the music and stories. Sadly the piano at Firefly in Jamaica has been left to the elements. Still, it was a magical experience for me to sit at it, touch the keys and imagine the great man sitting in exactly the same place.
Anthony Parkin on 11 June 2025
Sonia Beldom…Listening to the featured album of the week this week by Judy Garland and the track you played the I’m Confessin.
You notice that a songwriting practice many years ago was to give up preamble before you got into the body of the song.
Especially noticeable with songs classed as standards or The Great American Songbook.
At some point that stopped and composers or because of the way records were produced later they would just go straight into the body of the work.
Much the same as there is the lazy practice of many many years of fading a song out and the singer constantly repeating the same line over and over again.
Where once again previously many songs had a definite ending.
These days you do get a bit more variety and artists who are willing to bring a song to a close rather than take the easy way out.
From what you tell us of your husband’s involvement in music. I suspect he could say much on this topic.
Pam on 8 June 2025
Oh my goodness it’s like finding a sea of calm and sanity in this ever crazy world.
Stayed at Radio 2 for too long, definitely past my sell by date because I hate commercial radio. Music interrupted by adverts for bingo, betting and various charities. I’m a pensioner, I am a charity!
Found you totally by chance after a rant to my daughter and she added the UK radio app to my phone and said, you’ll definitely find something you like there! How right she was and not a moment too soon as the podcasts of Sam Costa & Jack Jackson from the 60’s were running out!
I am ecstatic, thank you. Now breathe!
Nick Hingley on 9 June 2025
Welcome from another long-departed after many decades Radio 2 refugee. You are among friends. Some of us have been here ten years!
Barbara Heathcote on 8 June 2025
I’m glad to see David Bownes appreciated Vic Damone singing “A Quiet Tear”. He’s my favourite you know. I’ve not heard him For a while but I don’t catch every programme unfortunately so hint hint Andy 🤣 I agree Serenade Radio is a joy. So happy I found it. I also discovered the likes of Vic Dana who I’d never heard of before.
David Bownes on 8 June 2025
Just listened to Vic Grooves wonderful Sunday afternoon programme, I thought what a joy Serenade Radio is . To hear recordings that I had never heard before, Margaret Whiting , “Come a little closer “ and “The people that you never get to love “ . Other new( to me) songs Sinatra’s brilliant version ofCher’s “Bang Bang” Vic Danone’s”A quiet tear” Among the regular delights are the wonderful and totally underrated Timi Yuro, the supreme Ella and Sarah Vaughan , and where else can you hear Anne Shelton’s beautiful version of “Room 504”. Also all brilliant presenters , Geoff Owen’s great Saturday Show, Danny Mac in the early hours of Saturday and Andy Marriott the best thing on morning radio since Terry Wogan , I will even forgive him for not liking Ms Streisand , I admire his honesty , refreshing and almost unheard among radio presenters, no one can like every singer , my personal bette noir artists are Ethel Merman who doesn’t so much sing a song as attack it with a sledge hammer and beat it till is totally unrecognisable, and the tuneless voice of Mavis Rivers! , but that’s just me , and Andy I do prefer Barbra!
Thank you all for the best radio station ever!
Vic Groves on 8 June 2025
Hi David, Thank you so much for your kind comments. I love all the music I play, but have to give a special mention to Timi Yuro…..what a magnificent voice. She can certainly bring me to tears. Very pleased you like so much of Serenade’s output. Thanks for listening. Regards, Vic
Alex on 8 June 2025
TV themes show was great last night, loved the gameshow and glen larson themes, pure nostalgia!! I know I keep on like a parrot or stuck record, but these need to be on mixcloud or listen back somehow,but I do get copyright reasons. Tracklistings would be great!!!
Dave in London on 8 June 2025
Woohoo, Demis Roussos was sounding mystical tonight with his band Aphrodite’s Child. Marie Jolie was the song if I remember correctly. Thanks to Steve James for transporting some of us back to the late sixties with that one. It was a time when Belgian and Dutch bands started to make singles and albums in English in order to appeal to a bigger market.
Steve, as you likely know the Dutch duo Greenfield and Cook came along a couple of years later with songs such as ‘Don’t Turn Me Loose’ and ‘Only Lies’. I wonder if you have played those songs.
Thanks for a great and moody listen this evening.
Steve James on 8 June 2025
Hi Dave and thank you for mentioning Greenfield & Cook, I’ll certainly look into their tracks for future programmes. There are some excellent Dutch and Belgian bands from that period, one of my favourites being Wallace Collection, who had a very individual classically-influenced sound and recorded two albums at Abbey Road, both engineered by Geoff Emerick, who of course had worked extensively with the Beatles.
Barbara Heathcote on 7 June 2025
Hi Andy. Good old Barbara here, 🤣. thanks for playing the Kojak theme tune. Who loves ya baby 🍭 Really enjoy the tv themes programme.
.
Ville on 7 June 2025
Greetings from Finland! I love Serenade Radio. I’m only 30-something, but age doesn’t matter when the music is timeless. Well-arranged orchestral music never gets old.
Andrew Hunter on 7 June 2025
FORTUOSITY…..Oh wow Adrian! I am smiling big time here and singing along! Thank-you so much xx
Anne Crowcroft on 7 June 2025
Enjoyed your Show this morning Johnny Mac. Nice to hear Millicent Martin, was lucky to see her in “Follies” years ago. Also it is good you always mention Don Black, one of our greatest lyric writers. He will be 87 years young on June 21st!
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 7 June 2025
Thank you, Anne. Welcome to the Great Early Morning Stalwarts! Don is a legend and will be my artist of the week on 21 June.
Suzy on 8 June 2025
Johnny, I’m finding more and more that I’m not joining you in the early hours of Saturday morning because I’m an insomniac, I’m staying awake just to listen to your fabulous programme! I was a TOG all those years ago but I’m now one of your GEMs.
Rai on 7 June 2025
Another beautiful morning of music and warm, friendly presenters on SR from the early hours with Sean and Johnny.
Andrew Hunter on 6 June 2025
Beautiful song “My Elusive Dreams”. Tom Jones does a fantastic version of it as well as does Tammy Wynette with Glen Campbell.
Fraser Sutherland on 21 June 2025
I missed the version actually played on Serenade of Curly Putman’s enduring song of fidelity, was it Tammy W and George Jones? If so, that’s a tremendous take. I also liked Nancy Sinatra and Lee Hazlewood’s version tho’ I didn’t know Tammy also sang with it Glen C. Glen did a great take with Bobbie Gentry as well.
David Small on 2 June 2025
A lovely programme each and every week day with Sonia Beldon always a lovely selection of music brings back lovely memories of the singers we used to hear on the wireless. Thank you
sonia beldom on 2 June 2025
Thank you David – so glad you’re enjoying the show and the music. Sonia x
Alan on 2 June 2025
Excellent shows again over the weekend, I know I sound like a stuck record, but really wish the shows were available to listen back, the big band specials, tv music show, and Roger Williams Soft Folkus are all great listening! Cheers!!
Roger Williams on 3 June 2025
Hello Alan, thank you for your kind comments about our shows. It’s lovely to know they’re appreciated.
Roger W
Christopher Cobb on 1 June 2025
Phew. I’m Backing Britain by Bruce Forsyth….haven’t heard that for nearly 60 years. Thanks to Peter Tomlinson for playing it. Can’t imagine there are any other radio stations you could hear it. Still have the original 45 in a box in the attic.
Vic Groves on 1 June 2025
Oops!! Just realised I made a mistake with the Ed Ames song somewhere. Not the same as the West Side Story song of the same name. Apologies!! Please forgive me!!
Fraser Sutherland on 1 June 2025
Mark Steyn’s ‘ On the Town’: (57)
Another two hours of this show would still not be enough. It was utterly compelling. The career of the late Charles Strouse for all its great and magnificent success was made still more significant and strangely moving by its failures. Liz Robertson singing ‘Dance a Little Closer’ from the eponymous musical was transfixing and a moment of beauty. As for the composer’s last performance of ‘Once Upon a Time” ….well, it will live long in the memory. This show was truly moving. No hour was better spent. Thanks Mark Steyn.
Mark Steyn on 5 June 2025
“Dance a Little Closer” is a terrific song, Fraser. I hadn’t heard it in a while till Charles died, but I think I’m going to make a bit of effort to get a few more singers interested in it. Glad you liked it, too.
David Bownes on 1 June 2025
The Pattersons were from Northern Ireland and performed made a lot of appearances on The Morecambe and Wise show
RC on 1 June 2025
They were from County Donegal in the Irish Republic.
Vic Groves on 1 June 2025
Hi David, Thanks for that and thanks for listening. I knew it was a comedy show, but couldn’t place which one. Thanks again, Vic
Barbara Heathcote on 31 May 2025
Hi Andy on the next tv theme tune show can I request Who Pays the Ferryman and The Strange world of Guerney Slade please, also I remember watching a tv show called the Voodoo Factor in the 60s, shown on a Saturday night. I was babysitting my baby brother at the time. Bit scary, Had a theme tune similar to African Safari but I can’t find it. Hoping you can. Thank you
Nancy on 31 May 2025
When I’m able to listen to Show Stoppers I am never disappointed. Adrian Jackson puts together a delightful hour of music! I must plan better to tune in on Saturday mornings. Thank you Adrian!
Adrian on 31 May 2025
Hello Nancy, thank you for your kind comments, I’m delighted you’re able to tune in to Showstoppers. There will be more next week and I hope you’ll be able to join me. Wishing you a great week.
T0ny Mansi on 31 May 2025
Still loving your show Cindy, can’t wait for Saturday afternoons, feet up with a good book, listening to music of our era.
Keep up the good work!
Love Tony and Maggie xx
RC on 31 May 2025
I love these bright early mornings as it gives me the chance to hear the night owls on a Saturday morning. Sean Usher is a delight and Johnny and Ed ease us all into another weekend.
Suzy on 31 May 2025
Coo, Ed Wellman mentioned me on his Dawn Chorus this morning – fame at last! Thanks, Ed, brilliant programme as always. I’d never heard the sweet Shelby Flint song that followed. Your Saturday ‘Music to Dust By’ is my ‘Music to Get Up By’. Sunday’s ‘Music Not to Dust By’ is stay snuggled up listening to your delightful music choice.
Ian Hall on 29 May 2025
Loving the new weekday 10am show with Sonia Beldum! Great chat so very friendly and great music. Keep up the good work.
Sonia Beldm on 29 May 2025
Hi Ian – so lovely to get your comment and thrilled you’re enjoying the show. As you can tell, I’m loving being in the Serenade seat at 10. All the best, Sonia
Michael Holban on 27 May 2025
As a big fan of easy listening, orchestras, and singers from the 50s and 40s.
I have never heard a radio station as high-level and professional as this station.
Well done to you!
Blessings.
I listen to you every day!
Ian C on 27 May 2025
A brilliant Bank Holiday Bonanza of Bossa Nova from Kevin Taylor last night ! The historical background, knowledgeable commentary and musical selelection was superb ! Three cheers Kevin !
Kevin Taylor on 27 May 2025
Hi Ian! What a fabulous review and comment. Thank you so much for your kind words. It was such a great project to work on, and I’m so glad you enjoyed it. Many thanks, Kevin
Maggie and Chris on 27 May 2025
David Yarnall’s track “Spring is here” was great to hear and laughed at the banter about guitarists between David and Sonia on their shows. She’s funny! And he’s great. We are Serenade converts and love NO ADS.
Sonia Beldom on 28 May 2025
Thank you Maggie. Thank you Chris. That’s a lovely thing to tell us and great that you’re loving Serenade – we love it too x
David Yarnall on 30 May 2025
Thank you Maggie and Chris. I am pleased you enjoyed Spring is here and I have a few more I could annoy you with including vocals. If I play a song, you could always take your tablet or whatever outside and scare the birds off your plants – unless you live in a flat of course. You never know if the gaffer will let me do it. Her Ladyship I thought was quite generous with her Tuesday morning comment.
Barbara Heathcote on 26 May 2025
Just caught the last 30 mins of the David Jacob’s tribute. As it’s a repeat I know it won’t be repeated again. 😞. I knew he was an admirer of Vic Damone. Listening to David and Terry Wogan who also played Vic re kindled my childhood radio days of listening to the likes of Vic, Frank Sinatra Perry Como etc and when I joined Vic’s fan club it gave me the opportunity to go to concerts, the last time Vic came to the UK was to appear with his then wife Diahann Carroll at the Piccadilly Hotel in Manchester . It was a cabaret including a 5 course meal and 2 tables away from mine was David Jacobs and his wife. I got his autograph. Annoyingly though we were due to have a meet and greet with Vic after the show and there we were glass of wine in hand waiting for him only to be told that Vic and Diahann gone out for a meal with David and wife Wasn’t very happy that night.
RC on 26 May 2025
I’ve been reading the messages here and thought, would there be a possibility for a request a song or artist facility. It might be so much easier for the “powers that be” to gather together the many varied suggestions out there.
Martyn Bassey on 26 May 2025
Great music from Steve James over the weekend. I love Telstar by The Tornados, but it was brilliant to hear Robot for a change. Many thanks Steve 👍
Steve James on 27 May 2025
Thanks Martyn, yes I’ll feature some more Tornados tracks soon, including my own favourite ‘Ice Cream Man’, although perhaps I’ll wait until the sun comes out again for that one!
Barbara Heathcote on 26 May 2025
Hi back from my hols so can get back to listening to serenade radio again. I wonder if you’ve done a film theme tune programme like Andy’s tv theme tune. There’s so many great film theme composers . Eg Ron Grainer, Lalo Schifirin, Ennio Morricone to name 3. Just a thought.
Jackie Newark on 26 May 2025
David Yarnall, just heard you playing “Spring is Here” – absolutely loved it! More of the same please.
David Yarnall on 26 May 2025
Thank you Jackie and I am glad you enjoyed Spring is here. I have a few more but mainly vocals although there is another instrumental that I might be able to use. I’ll see if it’s suitable for our easy listening policy. I have played a couple of vocals in the past but I don’t want my programme to turn into a promo for David Yarnall😂 Thanks again.
Wim de Lang on 26 May 2025
Hi Steve, do you know Rose Colored Glass with Can t Find the Time? I think you will love it.
Steve James on 27 May 2025
Hi Wim, that’s a new one on me! Thank you for suggesting it. I’ve just given it a listen (twice!) and it sounds great. It looks like it had a UK release on the President label.
Richard Newark on 25 May 2025
Serenade Radio is a joy – after years of listening to biased BBC drivel, I have found an audio home that I am blissfully happy to listen to most of the day… I enjoy all the programmes but Jane Markham’s quiet hour coincides with my first gin and tonic… perfect partners! Long live Serenade Radio… I salute you….
David Small on 24 May 2025
Thank you Roger once again for another lovely selection of music on the Dance Band Days and so well polished as usual
Roger Williams on 27 May 2025
Thank you David, it’s lovely presenting music from these brilliant musicians and it’s made very easy for me by Producer Paul who does all the real work!
Anthony Parkin on 28 May 2025
I always listen. I will never be able find or access the variety or range you and Paul find to play but in recent years I do have a fair few in my music library. If I see one I do my best to aquire it.
However Serenade does also fill in many gaps which others neglect. Orchestras that I remember from many years ago that had wonderful musicians and conductors/arrangers like Frank Chacksfield, Stanley Black and many more. Virtually impossible to find. Or they turn up at ridiculously inflated prices.
More power to your elbows.
James Pickering on 24 May 2025
Kevin Taylor always has such a tasteful selection of music, presented so stylishly; never miss Kevin’s shows.
jeff Gaskell on 24 May 2025
Its a great show….and dovetails perfectly with Roger Williams’ Soft Folkus ….the variety of music on offer on Serenade on Sunday night is unrivalled…. radio heaven 👌
Kevin Taylor on 25 May 2025
Hi James,
Thanks so much for your continued support of Serenade Radio and my show. I look forward to sharing the weekends and playing this wonderful music! With gratitude. Kevin Taylor
Andy Grahamme on 24 May 2025
Never miss the Stuart Linnell show….thank goodness for Serenade…I just love this programme…Stuart is such a polished broadcaster…great presentation and music that is beyond compare …
Stuart Linnell on 28 May 2025
Thank you Andy. I really enjoy putting the show together each week, so it’s lovely to know that you enjoy listening to it.
Martyn Bassey on 24 May 2025
Only managed to get one of the mystery years correct. Great music this morning as always, and three classics by the fantastic Johnny Mathis. Many thanks Johnny Mac 😊👍
Johnny Mac on 26 May 2025
There’s always next week, Martyn! Thank you for continuing to be a true member of the GEMS (Great Early Morning Stalwarts).
Karen on 24 May 2025
How apt that you should play a walk in the black forest Johnny, when I have made a brief trip to Germany. ( where you started at a slightly more civilised 4 am! ) A great show as usual and an extra hour’s sleep. Thank you.
Johnny Mac on 24 May 2025
Wunderbar! Enjoy the break, and so glad you had room in your suitcase for me!
Nancy on 24 May 2025
A Little Night Music is a wonderful Friday evening program where I live. Wonderful wonderful music – thanks to Johnny Mathis…and Johnny Mac!
Johnny Mac on 24 May 2025
Thank you, Nancy. Johnny Mathis is such a legend and here’s to a long and well deserved retirement.
Tom Cowan on 24 May 2025
I love Serenade Radio. I’m hearing singers and groups I’ve never heard before. Terrific announcers and no commercials.
Anthony Parkin on 22 May 2025
As Mavis Rivers is the album of the week…Serenade introduced me to her. There are not many albums available but…I did find a double CD containing the album of the week and another three. Very happy.
The other week ditto with Perry Como singing Latin songs. And acquiring three others unknown to me amd finally a retrospective of Margaret Whiting and her recordings at Capitol. Over 100 songs. A set of four discs.
Sometimes you fall lucky. Even greater if you have never had a singer in your collection before.
Anthony Parkin on 22 May 2025
I have a massive music library. More than I have ever had. Serenade plays what I have. What I wish I had or cannot afford to purchase or is unavailable. You sends me looking for an artist I am missing.
But…I would not hear my friends if I just played my own CD’s. I always hope that I can afford to stay online.
I appreciate the range of music featured. The hits but also the surprises and neglected rarities.
An example? Sonia played back to back a Perry Como song followed by Doris Day. The twist? Both were known for singing the songs that were played but normally they would be singing what was each other’s track so that was a change.
Sonia Beldom on 23 May 2025
Hi Anthony. So pleased you’re enjoying the playlist and your note about the Doris Day/Perry Como tracks is interesting. Keep listening and you never know, we might find something you DON’T have in your library.
Glenn Purland on 20 May 2025
Fantastic! Really looking forward to hearing David Jacob’s distinctive voice again on Bank Holiday Monday, in this heartfelt tribute to him and “our kind of music”. Thank you Serenade Radio ❤️
Mary Williams on 20 May 2025
Oh super – missed it first time round – thank you Serenade. Now must put it on my calendar, in my phone and ask my smart speaker to remind me. 😎
Rosemary on 20 May 2025
Magical music mix indeed. Lovely tunes and surprises. Loving having Serenade Radio on at work and Sonya for company. Keep it up.
Janet Finn on 19 May 2025
On her birthday. I used to enjoy radio when I was young and remember listening to the credits at the end of the shows and wondering who on earth this ‘Al McCogan’ was! It took me a long time to realise my mistake. Nevertheless I always enjoyed her singing and was so shocked when she died so young. Now it is a treat to listen to her on Serenade Radio, thank you.
Anthony Parkin on 22 May 2025
Fair memories that I possibly saw Alma in Summer Season at The Winter Gardens in Bournemouth with Matt Monro and Ken Dodd on the bill. I am talking 65 years ago. Even I must’ve been extremely young.
peter paul mangan on 19 May 2025
Nice to hear Stanley Unwin on Andy’s show,a very funny English eccentric,never tire of hearing his unique and quirky Unwinese language.
Steve in Worcs. on 23 May 2025
Ah, the Populode of thr Musicolly.
Deep joy 😊
Dave in London on 19 May 2025
Thanks to Simon for playing Soul Coaxing the other day, the Sounds Orchestral version. And heaps of gratitude for mentioning the man who wrote it and sang it to the top of the hit parade in French-speaking countries in 1967 – Michel Polanareff. It’s so rare to hear his name on this side of the English Channel.
In French the song is called Âme câline (rhymes with Spam Kathleen). The words are in the form of a lonely hearts ad. So no complete sentences, just the essentials:
Cuddling soul
Offers nest in the sunshine
Near the stars
For life
Or maybe more
For life
Or maybe less
Simon McLean on 19 May 2025
Thank you, Dave – it’s a lovely piece of music, and I’m something of a fan of Michel Polnareff too (I love his soundtrack to the film Ça N’arrive Qu’aux Autres, properly heart-rending stuff, as befits the film). Thanks also for the translation of the lyrics – I can only apologise for my pronunciation of Âme câline , I checked it before the show and then forgot mid-link! The perils of broadcasting!
Dave in London on 20 May 2025
Oh that’s a good one, not come across it before. Ta v much. I’m hoping that other readers here will think Michel Polnareff – never heard of him, must have a listen.
Roger Williams on 20 May 2025
I used to listen to French pop radio in the 60s and always listened out for Michel Polnareff and Jacque Dutronc. Always thought they were the French equivalent of Elton John and Ray Davies
Roger
Dave in London on 20 May 2025
Good to know that Roger, thanks. My radio went for the same wander along the longwave band at the time.
May I suggest a Serenade series: half hour specials on French pop music of the sixties at the easy listening end of the spectrum. Singers such as Yves Montand, Richard Anthony, Marie Laforêt, Adamo, Mireille Mathieu, Charles Aznavour. If Mr M likes the idea of course.
Roger Williams on 21 May 2025
Dave.. I rather like the idea of a French special – might have to compete with Simon for the presentation honours!
Dave in London on 21 May 2025
Looking forward to any developments there Roger. If you need help with playlisting it’s available. But tout va bien if you don’t. And with my listening hat on I’d be equally happy to hear yourself or Simon; I feel sure that we all would.
RC on 19 May 2025
There used to be a lovely programme on Sundays devoted to light classical music of the 1950s. Could they be repeated or a new show brought in to showcase this wonderful and much neglected genre?
Janet Reygan on 18 May 2025
I love the folk show, Soft Folkus, on Sunday evenings. Today, I was busy with something and forgot to listen. I wish it was repeated x
Roger Williams on 20 May 2025
Hello Janet, thank you for kind comment about Soft Folkus. Don’t worry about missing the last show. It wasn’t much good – this week’s will be MUCH better.
Let me know who you’d like to hear on the show and I’ll see if I can oblige
Roger
Roger Williams on 21 May 2025
The Critters eh? Hmmmm….I’ll have a furtle round and see what I can find. I remember one or two of their songs from back in the day….
R
ICR on 18 May 2025
Lovely to hear Brass bands on Serenade – in capable and talented hands
A fabulous opportunity to hear less well known, but equally enjoyable Bands
David Small on 18 May 2025
Lovely programme again this morning Ed and yes there is a Serenade Road in Kirby Liverpool ,
Suzy on 18 May 2025
Well, Ed, there’s a Serenade Lake in Indonesia that will take 133 days to walk to if we start now! A wonderful Dawn Chorus as always, thank you … such a lovely start to my weekends.
Keith Howe on 17 May 2025
Brilliant radio station, thank you Andy for the idea you came up with , My late wife Kathleen and I had lovely times together listening to the station , as i do still thinking of those times , The radio is on from when I get up till I go to bed even when I go out greets me when I come in . Thank you Andy and all you presenters Keith Howe
Chris Hitchcock on 17 May 2025
Hi Mark, Interesting program on the Eurovision , the early years had one thing in common”Melody”. We lost the plot years ago. Is it a case of “The Emperors New Clothes”? Ireland had 7 wins all of them memorable. I think that its time to ditch the contest. Nice to hear the soft tones of Dana. Innocent days!
Mark Steyn on 23 May 2025
Thank you, Chris. No arguments about Dana. There’s a photograph of us behind my desk as I type. She looks lovely and I look like a goofy dork who’s hit the jackpot. And no arguments about that first decade of Eurovision; a lot of nice forgotten songs lurking in there.
Andrew Hunter on 17 May 2025
Hi Adrian. Thanks for a lovely show with many well-known songs, beautifully sung! Have a fabulous week.
Andrew in CT, RSA.
Adrian on 17 May 2025
Thank you Andrew, delighted you enjoyed and lovely to know you continue to listen to Serenade Radio from Cape Town. There will also be more Tommy Steele very soon!
Andrew Hunter on 17 May 2025
Great to see you remember me and that I requested Tommy Steele “Fortuosity” 🙂 I might not be able to tune in next week due to a family bereavement so please hold Tommy over to another week.
Martyn Bassey on 17 May 2025
Many thanks to Sean Usher, Johnny Mac, and Ed Wellman for the fabulous entertainment during the early hours of Saturday morning. Wonderful!
Johnny Mac on 31 May 2025
Thank you, Martyn. You’re always there to compliment and appreciate our efforts!
Martyn Bassey on 17 May 2025
I remember all three songs from 1979 very well. Great to hear Françoise Hardy, and also one of my favourite singers, Mr Johnny Mathis 👍
Nancy on 17 May 2025
Ten or so years ago I was offered a free dinner and show ticket to see Johnny Mathis. I couldn’t go but I gave the ticket to my 23 year old daughter who was delighted to go as she loved his voice. She wasn’t disappointed a bit!
Martyn Bassey on 17 May 2025
That’s wonderful. I would have loved to have seen Johnny Mathis in concert. My parents were great fans of his, so I grew up listening to him. Absolutely fabulous singer.
Johnny Mac on 17 May 2025
Johnny Mathis is my artist of the week next Saturday morning on A Little Night Music, as tomorrow marks his final concert and retirement. See you at 3am Saturday!
Nancy on 17 May 2025
“Bright Eyes” is such a lovely song by Art Garfunkel, ditto “Cavatina”. Wasn’t familiar with the third mystery year song but the three together were great! 😊
Johnny Mac on 17 May 2025
Ahh, Nancy, the third song was Pilot Of The Airwaves, by Charlie Dore. A wonderful memory from 1979. Thank you for tuning into A Little Night Music – you’re a true gem.
Patricia Murray on 16 May 2025
Found this site today, wow, no ads or news. Listening to the songs and music my mum and I used to listen to. It has music without any singing too.
Lovely listen to music, no loud singing or shouting, thumping bands, a really calming station, Guess for the elderly like me😍
Sonia Beldom on 17 May 2025
Hi Patricia – hooray to finding us and it’s great you’re enjoying the music. If you love the tunes and are young at heart, as it sounds as if you are, Serenade Radio is absolutely for you and everyone who appreciates the best easy listening in the world (I have listeners in their teens, so you’re in good company).
Sam & Joe on 16 May 2025
We miss Mr Fisher but welcoming Sonia’s fabulous show. Listening daily from Cape Cod Massachusetts USA. Thank you Sonja,
Sonia Beldom on 16 May 2025
Hi Sam and Joe – Yes, Dick Fisher is a hard act to follow so it’s extra special to hear you’re enjoying the new show. Thank you for your lovely comments. Sonia
Nick Hingley on 16 May 2025
Welcome Sonia
Keith Fordyce, Gloria Hunniford, Brian Hayes and the late great John Dunn – that’s some radio royalty! Always enjoyed John Dunn’s shows and his guest interviews when driving home. And the mystery voice – Wrrrong!!!
I do miss Dick as I first heard him just a year short of fifty years ago on Beacon Radio – sad that his tenure was so short.
I also remember ‘Beat The Record’ from back in the Don Davis days. I’m not /that/ ancient but I guess after the pop pirates of the high seas I turned into a bit of a square…
Sonia Beldom on 16 May 2025
Thank you Nick. What a lovely welcome. Sonia x
Claire Unwin on 15 May 2025
‘Stay with the happy people’ and listen to Sonia Beldom! Loving the upbeat tunes from real musicians.
Karen on 17 May 2025
All the music on Serenade Radio is by real musicians, that is just one of the things that has always made it so great.
Barbara Heathcote on 15 May 2025
Hi Andy. I’m a bit mixed about this weeks Album of the week. Both have great voices but I can’t get the image out of my mind of Jack Cassidy being arrested for murder by Colombo 🤣
Nick Hingley on 16 May 2025
I’ve only one word for this album: Terrific.
Lindsay Seagrim-Trinder on 15 May 2025
Serenade has suddenly stopped working! Any ideas?
Serenade Radio on 15 May 2025
Hi Lindsay, if you meant the player on the website, that was a glitch behind the scenes and has now been fixed. If you were referring to Amazon Alexa devices, that was another fault out of our control and is also now working. Thank you for drawing our attention to it.
Charles Wilkinson on 14 May 2025
Just spent a couple of hours listening to the lovely voice of Sonia Beldom. Great show Sonia. Thank you for the Aka Bilk xx
Sonia Beldom on 14 May 2025
How lovely to get your comment – and great that you’re enjoying the show and the music. Acker Bilk is a bit of a Serenade Radio favourite, so keep tuning in. Sonia
Anthony Parkin on 13 May 2025
Sonia Beldom still weaving musical magic and words. I am not a noisy neighbour but my neighbour’s are away on a fortnight’s holiday. So I can turn things up anytime that I wish 🤣
For various reasons I have not been relaxing. Things have got in the way. Nothing exciting…today you accompanied me doing washing but worse than that I flooded the kitchen 😲 that has been a job and a half to put right.
Thanks again
Anthony
Sonia Beldom on 14 May 2025
I hope the music helped get you through it … and that things have dried out. Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment and keep enjoying the show.
Nancy on 13 May 2025
Shirley Jones and Jack Cassidy have a lovely show-tuney vibe in their singing. I’d forgotten what a good voice Cassidy had.
Mark Mander on 12 May 2025
I stumbled upon Serenade Radio by chance this morning and had the good luck to discover Sonia Bedlam’s show. A fantastic mix of easy listening from shows, films and hit parades of olden days linked together with Sonia’s witty and informative chat. I had only heard half of the song before, the rest were a revelation. Ms Beldom knows her stuff ! What a treat, more please !
Sonia Beldom on 12 May 2025
So thrilled that you’re enjoying the music and surprises – thank you for your kind words and keep listening. Sonia
peter townsend on 11 May 2025
how well regarded was the drummer/band leader Gene Krupa in his day
Barbara Heathcote on 10 May 2025
Another great hour of Theme Tunes Andy, I shall be in Italy next Saturday so can’t listen, not sure if the bar or wherever I’ll be sitting at 9.00 pm will appreciate me singing along. Pity it can’t be repeated like some serenade programmes are 😞.
David Small on 10 May 2025
Thank you Roger for another brilliant Dance Band Days and great to hear the signature tune at the beginning in full and finally just love those quips at the end , I don’t like lumpy custard either
Roger Williams on 13 May 2025
Hello David
Thank you for your kind comments. It was Producer Paul’s idea to run the theme tune in full – and a jolly good one too. As for the quips at the end……well, we’ll see if we can keep them coming! Roger & Paul.
Andy Grahamme on 10 May 2025
Absolutely smashing programme from Stuart Linnell today…his Saturday show is such a quality programme..the music and presentation just outstanding. An absolute joy. Thanks Stuart.
Jeff Gaskell on 11 May 2025
Agree completely, it’s a great listen on a Saturday afternoon….
Stuart Linnell on 13 May 2025
Thank you Andy. I’m so pleased that you enjoy the show. Thank you for listening and for taking the trouble to send in such a lovely message.
Karen on 10 May 2025
Two mystery years and the chance to blast out ‘oh what a beautiful morning” at 5.50am, and now it is ‘picture of you’ by Joe Brown, who doesn’t sing along to that! I thought i might miss today’s show as i was out last night. Good job I didn’t. Great show as ever Johnny.
Johnny Mac on 10 May 2025
You’re a trooper, Karen! A super trooper!
Nancy on 10 May 2025
Elkie Brooks – love her voice and style! Sigh…🌻
Johnny Mac on 10 May 2025
Elaine can turn her hand to any kind of music. A real gem, Nancy.
Martyn Bassey on 10 May 2025
I love Morningtown Ride by The Seekers. I remember listening to Ed “Stewpot” Stewart on Junior Choice. Many thanks Johnny 👍
Johnny Mac on 11 May 2025
Lovely memories. ‘Allo darlin’ is still ringing in my ears!
Karen on 9 May 2025
Sonia is so right with her comment about liking good music irrespectiveof its age. I have also had people surprised that the music i like is older than they expect, but I always answer the same. I simply like good music. A famous 80s popstar … who wouldn’t be played on Serenade Radio!… said to me quite recently that it doesn’t matter what genre it is, there are only 2 types of music .. Good music and bad music. He has a point. SR of course only plays the good stuff.
Richard on 9 May 2025
I think Stardust by Nat King Cole is the finest song ever… thank you so much for playing it just after 11.15….
Sonia Beldom on 12 May 2025
It’s a wonderful track isn’t it? Glad you’re enjoying the music, especially Stardust
Nancy on 9 May 2025
“Three-to-loo, three-to-loo”
I’ve seen Victor Borge in concert twice. When one realizes that he didn’t speak a word of English when he and his family escaped Hitler’s death squad to America it’s astounding to hear his ‘language’ comedy. What a genius.
Steve in Worcs. on 10 May 2025
He was a huge favourite of mine, too, Nancy.
And when you consider he was a concert-level pianist, too….. amazing man.
Suzy on 9 May 2025
I recently looked at notes I made twenty+ years ago whilst talking to my late beloved Dad (who sang just like Gordon MacCrae) and asking him for his memories of the 1920s, 30s and 40s. I noticed he’d said his favourite singer was Leslie Douglas. He liked Henry Hall, Jack Payne on the TV/radio and other Big Band leaders. He recalled Phyllis Robbins who was a singer with the Henry Hall Band. So, fancy that, here I am listening to Serenade Radio most of the day and I think I know a few presenters who will know those names.
Eloise on 8 May 2025
You and The Night and The Music – evenings are fun with Sonya in the seat !!!!!!!!
Sonia Beldom on 9 May 2025
That’s so nice to hear. As you can probably tell, I’m loving spring in that seat
Christine Gutowski on 7 May 2025
Thoroughly enjoying the addition of Sonia Beldom, what a lovely friendly/soothing voice she has. I’m enjoying singing along with many of the songs this evening. Petula Clark singing a Kinks song in French, that’s a first for me, loved it though.
More from Sonia please.
Sonia Beldom on 7 May 2025
That’s the wonder of Serenade Radio – you never know what gems are going to be brought to the surface. Thank you for your lovely comments Christine.
Steve in Worcs on 7 May 2025
I meant to leave this message earlier, but a thousand “thank yous” to Kevin T for that superb programme on the Bossa Nova on Bank Holiday Monday evening.
It featured all my favourites, that I have been a enjoyed since first hearing Mais Que Nada by Sergio Mendes in 1966 – I was 9! 😊 I have quite a bit of Brazilian – and other Latin – music in my collection, which I love to the point of considering learning Brazilian Portuguese!
My first introduction to Eliane Elias was from her treatment of “Jammin’”, the Bob Marley classic, which is astonishing as a piano-driven jazz piece!
Kevin Taylor on 9 May 2025
Hi Steve, thank you so much for your lovely comments. I’m so glad you enjoyed the “Story of Bossa Nova” programme this week. I’ve wanted to do this for some time now and share it with our listeners. It’s a beautiful genre of music, and one of my favorites. Thanks for supporting and listening to Serenade Radio! Kevin
Ray C on 7 May 2025
Now that we have a bright and breezy lady on the weekday mid mornings, what about a relaxing and calming nightcap of a voice from 10pm to midnight? Maybe one of the weekenders can be brought out?
Jeff Gaskell on 7 May 2025
Loving the addition of Sonia to the Serenade schedule….a perfect fit for the station….can we keep her?…..
Sonia Beldom on 7 May 2025
Thank you for your kind words Jeff. I’m back on Monday !
Pierre & Henriette on 7 May 2025
Bonjour from France Sonia ! Nous aimons la musique!
Sonia Beldom on 7 May 2025
Bonjour. Thank you for your message and yest, the music’s great isn’t it.
Ruth on 7 May 2025
Listening from West Tennessee in the USA. Found your station by accident and I absolutely love the music! Keep up the amazing melodies!
Sonia Beldom on 7 May 2025
Well, we love playing that music Ruth. Lucky you found us.
Mike on 6 May 2025
We are Sonia fans ! Where did you find her? Haven’t heard her before. She’s ace.
Sonia Beldom on 7 May 2025
Hi Mike – that’s so kind. great that you’re enjoying the show and the music.
GHunniford on 6 May 2025
Loving the dulcet tones of Sonia’s voice. She’s a terrific addition to Serenade Radio and I’d listen to her all day as she’s knowledgable and funny.
Sonia Beldom on 12 May 2025
Such a lovely message – thank you and I hope you enjoy the music and chat
Barbara Heathcote on 6 May 2025
Hi Andy it was great to hear Roger Miller King of the Road, always loved that song along with Dang Me they ought to take a rope and hang me. What a Strange title of a song. 😄. Or England Swings. All great songs. Good to hear him, not played enough. Thank you.
Lynn Lugsden on 6 May 2025
I love listening to Serenade, it just makes me happy. Really enjoying the slot with Sonia, such a soothing and friendly voice.
Sonia Beldom on 6 May 2025
Thank you Lynn, I’m thrilled you’re enjoying the music and thank you for your kind comments. Keep listneing.
Rose on 6 May 2025
To Dear Sonia, so nice to hear your lovely voice live on this station. Thoroughly enjoying the selection of music.
Lots of love from Julia, Russ and Rose
Sonia Beldom on 6 May 2025
Lovely to know you’re listening … and on your birthday too. Happy Birthday Rose x
Joe Elliott on 5 May 2025
Listening right now (Monday) from Cape Cod MA, awesome playlist! We’re liking Sonia over here!! 👏🏻
Sonia Beldom on 6 May 2025
How wonderful that you’re listening across the Atlantic ! Thank you for your kind comments Joe.
Jonathan Shirley on 5 May 2025
Just listened to Kevin Taylor and what absolutely fabulous radio show, totally engaging 🎉
Fraser Sutherland on 5 May 2025
Thanks Kevin for a truly enjoyable and absorbing ‘History of the Bossa Nova’, I love this kind of themed Serenade programme (‘Soft Folkus’, ‘On the Town’, etc.). Jobim, João and Astrud Gilberto, Getz, de Moraes, Gal Costa so great to listen to again and I really enjoyed a track from a new name you played (at least to me): Eliane Elias. Tremendous, and thanks again Kevin. Will the programme be programmed again? Hope so.
Kevin Taylor on 9 May 2025
Thank you Fraser for your kind words. It was a real pleasure presenting the “Story of Bossa Nova” with our listeners, and I’m so glad you enjoyed it. I’m not sure whether or not the show will be repeated, however, we will certainly promote it should it be repeated. Cheers! Kevin
Andy Grahamme on 5 May 2025
Just been listening to Kevin Taylors Bossa Nova hour…such a terrific programme…and so much enjoyable with of course Kevins knowledgeable..informative and professional presentation. Particularly loved Sinatra/Jobim although all of the music was so enjoyable. Thanks Kevin…you must have done a lot of research for the programme.
Kevin Taylor on 9 May 2025
Hi Andy, I’m so glad you enjoyed the show. This genre of music is one of my most favorites, and we only scratched the surface in this presentation. There are so many more artists, musicians, and songs that I couldn’t get to in one hour, however, it provided a nice historical snapshot of the music and its origins. Thank you for your continued encouragement and love for Serenade Radio. Cheers, Kevin
Tamara Boldy on 5 May 2025
What a joy to listen to Sonia Beldom’s programme today. Perfect to listen to whilst decorating on a gloomy bank holiday!
Sonia Beldom on 6 May 2025
How lovely to hear that Serenade Radio is the background music to your decorating. I can imagine that paintbrush swishing up and down in time to the tunes.
Ross on 5 May 2025
Really loved Sonia Beldom’s show; such a warm and friendly style, with lots of interesting things to say about the music.
Sonia Beldom on 6 May 2025
Thank you Ross – good to know that you’re appreciating the music and the bits in between. Happy listening.
Camilla Lake on 5 May 2025
What a treat to listen to Sonia Beldom this morning …she has turned this grey overcast bank holiday into a sunshine morning. I’d listen to her every day!
Sonia beldom on 6 May 2025
What a lovely thing to say – thank you. Who cares about the weather when there is such great music to listen to here. Hope the sun comes out soon in Bexhill x
Nicola Rawlings on 5 May 2025
Sonia Beldom is brilliant! Such a breath of fresh air, please can we have her back again next week? (And the week after that…) Great music, great show.
Anthony Parkin on 5 May 2025
Welcome Sonia Beldom to the Serenade family of presenters and listeners. Whether you can be a regular or an addition to the rota. All superb. Retired. On my own. I have the option of early listening to start the day. Or ending it. Music over the news. Take Care,
Anthony
Sonia Beldom on 6 May 2025
What a lovely message – thank you. I’m loving my first week here on Serenade, playing music that transcends time and sounds as fresh today as the day it was recorded. I’ve got an idea for you – rather than pick the early morning or evening slot – why don’t you listen to both? Ha ha. Happy listening.
Anthony Parkin on 6 May 2025
Well…Are you psychic? I did. You cannot get too much of a good thing 😉
Sonia Beldom on 7 May 2025
What a lovely thing to say Anthony. Glad you’re enjoying it.
Sonia Beldom on 6 May 2025
What a lovely thing to say. Thank you Nicola. Let’s hope people have enjoyed the show as much as you and I get to return. Keeping enjoying Serenade.
Jeff Gaskell on 4 May 2025
Roger Williams proving again tonight why Soft Folkus is the best show on UK Radio…..sublime listening….didn’t want it to end……Thanks Roger….an absolute treat
Roger Williams on 5 May 2025
Jeff,
I’m blushing! It’s not even the best show on Serenade Radio. Seriously though, thank you for your kind comments. I very much enjoy putting the show together and I’m delighted that you ‘get’ what I do.
Roger
Nick Hingley on 5 May 2025
It’s a never-miss show. If I’m out I cobble up a means to record it (but no longer a lash-up using a Philips cassette recorder).
The boundary is pushed a bit which means there’s always a good range which really suits me.
Hope you may get to meet Ralph McTell sometime. A genuinely nice bloke.
But all the specialist shows on Serenade are excellent – as good as any that Radio 2 did before it closed down.
Karen Corf on 4 May 2025
Great Soft Folkus tonight Roger. Especially the second hour! Thank you for introducing me to all these great new ( to me) acts that I have been able to go and see.
Roger Williams on 5 May 2025
Hello Karen
It’s a joy putting the programme together. Getting the mix right between the vintage acts and newer material is always a bit of a juggling act. I’m so pleases you’ve enjoyed hearing some of these extraordinary performers live.
Thank you for your support for Soft Folkus and all the other shows on our remarkable station.
Roger
Jackie Newark on 4 May 2025
Oh I did so enjoy the TV theme show. Several of my favourite themes (Bonanza, Dr Kildare) not to mention laughing (as I did 50 years ago) at the Mash Get Smash advert! Thank you Andy – more please.
Alan on 4 May 2025
Hello,
Listened to the TV themes show for the first time last night, only wish it could have beem 2 hours, a great blast.of nostalgia!!
Have a good bank holiday weekend!!
Stephanie Smith on 4 May 2025
Oh wowzers! Just discovered you…..no adverts every second…..and no awful news every hour….thankyou will be listening a lot more now…,bless xx
Barbara Heathcote on 3 May 2025
Hi Andy, Great Tv Theme show tonight. Thanks for the mention. I’m a fan of tv detective shows and one of them is Kojak. Tele Savalas has recorded quite a few songs including “If” which reached No, 1 over here, there’s also a record which I haven’t heard for a long time called “Who Loves Ya Baby” which isn’t exactly twaddle but certainly different.
Alan on 4 May 2025
I thought the same!! Will listen every saturday, far better option than adverts and the same pieces played to death on other statiions.
Martyn Bassey on 3 May 2025
Great to have the TV Show back again. So many wonderful theme tunes on tonight’s show. Fabulous! Many thanks to Andy Marriott.
Vanessa-Ann Dowsett on 3 May 2025
Saturday evening is now officially my favourite evening of the week. Firstly, at 6pm there is the fabulous Showstoppers with Adrian and now at 8pm, the TV show with Andy why would I be anywhere other than beside my smart speaker . Bliss. Thanks Adrian and Andy and all at Serenade
Keith B on 3 May 2025
Discovered Serenade yesterday and dipped in and out few times today. Just what I’ve been wanting for years. Great music and no adverts. Thank you
Karen on 3 May 2025
Thank you Paul and Roger for playing ‘I wouldn’t leave my little wooden hut’. I was singing along as the words are still in my head from 54 years ago when I last heard it!. Great also to hear ‘has anybody here seen kelly’ in the same medley my nan used to love that song so I used to hear it lots when I was growing up. Great show as usual.
Paul Ruddock on 3 May 2025
Hello Karen
So glad you caught the request and were singing along too, that will have drowned out all the crackles on what was a rather worn out old 78.
I’ll ask Roger if he’ll play the other side of the record for you in a future show, I think that might also get you singing!
Thank you for your kind words about Dance Band Days, it’s greatly appreciated.
Best wishes
Paul
Paul Ruddock on 9 May 2025
Hello Karen
Roger’s agreed so I’ve snuck in side two of Jack Hylton’s ‘Old Time Songs’ – it’ll be part of the Saturday 31st May/Monday 2nd June broadcast.
I hope you enjoy!
Best wishes
Paul
Karen on 9 May 2025
Thank you Paul. I will listening ( as usual)
Andrew Hunter on 3 May 2025
Hi Adrian
Lovely to hear Tommy Steele 🙂 A warm, sunny CT thank-you!
Adrian on 3 May 2025
Hi Andrew, thanks for listening and I’ll be featuring Tommy again in future programmes.
Tommy played at my theatre on a number of occasions and I had the pleasure of working with him, Hope you’ll join me next week
Andrew Hunter on 3 May 2025
Hi Adrian
I am glad to hear that you will be featuring him again (with I hope my “Fortuosity” song 🙂 It must be wonderful being a part of the theatre world and getting to meet such famous people.
Thanks for a super show.
Martyn Bassey on 3 May 2025
Managed to get the second mystery year thanks to Carole King singing Too Late. Lovely songs by Johnny Mathis, and Françoise Hardy earlier on as well. Thanks Johnny 👍
Johnny Mac on 6 May 2025
Thank you, Martyn. A Little Night Music is on at the best time of the day after all!
Nancy on 3 May 2025
Great energy to start the show Johnny – ‘Put it There Pal’ and Lombardo’s ‘Frenesi’, wow! Gave me the energy to bake a cake! Friday evenings are a pleasure!
Johnny Mac on 3 May 2025
You must email SR with a picture or two of said cakes!
“If I knew you were comin’, I’d have baked a cake…”
Nancy on 3 May 2025
I’ll leave this to your imagination – Lemon Blueberry Ricotta Cake 😄
Matthew on 2 May 2025
I was so sorry to hear of Chris Helme’s passing.
Condolences to his family and friends. Please, Serenade. try and keep this 9pm Friday slot “classy and brassy” – which is just what Mr Helme epitomised.
Edgar on 2 May 2025
The day the rains came? And all of a sudden, after no rain all day, it’s pouring.
Chris on 2 May 2025
Hi Jeff, thanks for a fantastic week of music and chat. Hope you have time to do it again soon. I heard Cleckheaton mentioned. I lived there years ago. Cheers!
Andrew Hunter on 1 May 2025
Hi. Love Scott Joplin’s music. I have a few cd’s of his. Thanks for including him.
Karen on 1 May 2025
Loving the twaddle this week but especially today which is one I’ve not heard before… it’s my nose”s birthday… apparently ‘ a wipe of the cuff is enough ‘ 🤣🤣…. sssh don’t tell my mum !
Steve in Worcs. on 1 May 2025
Same here, Karen. Looking forward to each day 😎🤣
Jackie Newark on 30 April 2025
Always enjoy Jeff Owen’s weekend show so a definite bonus hearing him all week. Thank you.
Liz Atwell on 29 April 2025
Thank you for choosing Perry Como’s “Lightly Latin” as Album of The Week. Until yesterday, apart from “The Shadow of Your Smile,” I’d never heard any other track played on the radio. It’s my go to music to de-stress and, quite possibly, my Desert Island album. Thanks again Serenade.
Anthony Parkin on 29 April 2025
Also interesting that the likes of Perry Como was popular again in the 60’s/70’s and he had single chart success with the likes of It’s Impossible. For the Good Times and I Love You So. But was still selling albums. The charts really did offer a diverse variety of music.
In general singers like Perry slightly became upbeat whereas others like Johnny Mathis tended to try to move into what was becoming popular such as disco.
My own music listening is so eclectic. But I do find myself looking to discover music I associate with my early years. And yes as you have probably seen I have found a copy of Perry’s album to add to my collection.
Liz Atwell on 29 April 2025
It was actually my Dad’s record and was ten when it was released but I always enjoyed it, although I’d never admit to it until I was older. The charts were really diverse, which is why the 60’s and 70s were such great decades for music…..and fashion…..and telly…..and……
Steve in Worcs. on 29 April 2025
…quality of life.
Barbara Heathcote on 28 April 2025
Hi, Just sent a small donation in appreciation of all the work that goes into such a great radio channel
Steve in Worcs. on 29 April 2025
…quality of life.
Cindy Kent on 2 May 2025
Thank you Barbara, every little helps!
Elaine Biggerstaff on 28 April 2025
Please accept my condolences upon Chris’ death. I loved his brass band show. My grandfather was a big fan of brass bands and he inspired me to become interested in them.
Anthony Parkin on 28 April 2025
All the Perry Como albums I own and Serenade finds new material I have never heard for this week’s featured album. Why we keep coming back for more.
Anthony Parkin on 28 April 2025
You’ve done it now 😃 I have found a copy of the album and it has another three albums that are new to me. One has Italian songs…thanks.
David Small on 28 April 2025
Thank you Adrian for playing the music from Martin Guerre I love all the music from this show and it is so sad that this show was not a hit with the public. Loving all the other music that you play Miss Saigon and of course Les Miserables . Keep up the good work
David Small on 28 April 2025
So very sad to hear the death of Chris Helme who had his brass band programme on Serenade Radio on a Friday Night never missed his lovely programmes of Brass Band Music . My thoughts are with his family at this ver sad time R.I.P Chriss
Chris on 28 April 2025
Hi Jeff, thanks, first time I’ve had a mention on Serenade!
Brilliant programme.
Al on 28 April 2025
Hi again,
Excellent soft folkus show last night, nice to hear the pennine way again, which I think I heard a few weeks back, and also Steve Earle, love copperhead road, so galway girl was one I had not heard before!!
Have a great week,
Al
Nick Hingley on 28 April 2025
Yet more sad news. I have thoroughly enjoyed Chris’s ‘Bandstand’ programme which filled a massive gap since Frank Renton’s ‘Listen to the Band’ disappeared from Radio 2. I was going to post something along the lines of ‘Where Serenade leads, the BBC follows’ as Radio 3 have just announced a brass band programme to be broadcast on Sunday evenings. I will have to listen to that via BBC Sounds as Sundays are strictly Serenade Radio at Hingley Towers.
Chris had such enthusiasm for his genre of music and demonstrated great knowledge of his subject. Another Serenade presenter who will be sorely missed. Sincere condolences to Chris’s family and friends.
RIP Chris Helme
Lindsay Seagrim-Trinder on 27 April 2025
Just “listening again” to the programme about Ivor Novello; my grandmother (1892-1951) was one of the “adoring women” who loved Ivor Novello’s music, and she named my father (1922-2005) after him! xx
Catherine on 26 April 2025
Dear Mark, Great programme as always, but I had to write about Davy Crockett! Graham and I started singing along – he admitted he only remembered the chorus – and from somewhere in the grey depths I suddenly dug out the name of Fess Parker. We both remembered watching the tv series and all the kids going to school singing the song and being desperate for a Davy Crockett hat. Another age! Thanks for a happy memory.
Nancy on 26 April 2025
I’m so sad to learn that Chris Helme has died. A loss indeed to Serenade Radio and its listeners.
Rest in peace sir, you will be missed.❤
Jackie Newark on 26 April 2025
So sorry to hear of the loss of another Serenade presenter. Thank you Chris Helme for the great music you always played for us. RIP
Linda Marskell on 26 April 2025
Sorry to hear about Chris Helme. Condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. His passing is a real blow to Serenade Radio . Chris had such a passion and wealth of knowledge, so much so, that his show was a ‘must not miss’ programme in my house.
Maggie mulherine on 26 April 2025
So sorry to hear of the passing of another wonderful presenter, R.I.P. Chris Helme. Thanks for the music
Martyn Bassey on 26 April 2025
Another fab show Johnny. Not forgetting Sean Usher earlier on. Many thanks to you both 👍👍
Johnny Mac on 3 May 2025
Good man, Martyn. Always glad to hear from you.
Nancy on 26 April 2025
Great program this evening Johnny. Very atmospheric variety of music. Thank you for your presenter talents!
Johnny Mac on 31 May 2025
Awww, thank you, Nancy. And it was great to finally get round to playing your nominated artist of the week, Norah Jones!
Ray on 25 April 2025
Who’s up next on the mid morning weekday show. We’ve had Ed, Johnny and Jeff the last three weeks. All very varied!
Serenade Radio on 25 April 2025
Jeff Owen will be looking after the show for another week.
Chris on 25 April 2025
Jeff, brilliant week of music and chat! I can’t listen to all of your Saturday morning show so this week has been really good for me. Thanks!
John Walsh on 25 April 2025
Hi Jeff, Lovely to hear you play The Windows of the World with Bobby Gentry. A kind of lost Burt and Hal composition but a very powerful tune all the same with a anti war theme running through it. I love this version with a simple guitar backing. Great tunes Jeff on your magnificent show every day as I paint and create in my studio here in Ireland. I am glad I found Serenade radio, it’s brilliant.
Karen on 24 April 2025
Thoroughly enjoyed listening to Sammes Songs . Both the music and hearing Mike Sammes introducing the tracks himself. Another little gem on SR
Nancy on 24 April 2025
Mrs. Miller. I’d almost forgotten,,,yikes 😮
Randall Riley on 24 April 2025
Just heard you guys play “I’m Beginning to See the Light” by Rosemary Clooney. Just in case other listeners would like to know and (and maybe add to your info), the incredible band behind her on that recording is none other than Woody Herman and His Orchestra, recorded near the end of his long career. Woody soloed on that track as well. Great stuff!
Randall Riley on 24 April 2025
Digging “No Name Jive” by Glen Gray and the Casa Loma Orchestra. If that doesn’t get you up out of your chair and jitterbugging, nothing will! Thanks for the great tunes!
Barbara Heathcote on 23 April 2025
Hi Andy I agree with you Vic Damone didn’t always get the recognition he deserved, maybe I’m a bit biased but to me he was up there with Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennet but always seemed to be left on the fringe of the top crooners. His version of All the Things You are is beautiful.
Elaine Biggerstaff on 28 April 2025
Barbara, I agree. I honestly never thought Frank Sinatra was that great a singer.
Catherine B on 23 April 2025
Good morning Jeff, Thanks for lovely choice of music this week, had to write to tell you I had a LOL moment this am with La Vie en Rose.
Paul on 23 April 2025
You weren’t alone there Catherine!
Karen on 23 April 2025
Me too Catherine and I nearly choked on my tea with the ‘ playing away’ and Brian Cant comments!
Steve in Worcs on 23 April 2025
Fantastic choice for the “twaddle spot” today, Andy – so appropriate 🤣
St. George and the Dragnet – “….he boined me already!”
Dave Cole on 23 April 2025
Hi Andy,
Thanks for playing ‘Snow bird’ by Anne Murray. Just to mention that the version by its author, Gene MacLellan, is worth a listen to. Its very poignant as his life ended so tragically!
Dave Cole on 22 April 2025
Please Help Me I’m Falling – Hank Locklin. Such a great track! Thanks.
Jeff Owen on 23 April 2025
Glad you enjoyed it Dave & thanks for listening.
Dave Cole on 22 April 2025
Thanks to Andy Marriott for playing Harry Secombe’s ‘The Old Rugged Cross’. Such a great hymn!
Vanessa-Ann Dowsett on 22 April 2025
Thank you Serenade and Roger for a wonderful programme, it was a golden hour. The very worrying thing was that I knew all the words to all of the songs, much to my neighbours chagrin! Thank you, looking forward to another, or even a repeat
Roger Williams on 22 April 2025
Hello Vanessa
It is extraordinary that we can remember the words to all these songs but can’t remember what we did yesterday. Congratulations on entertaining the neighbours – I bet they loved it. It was great fun putting the show together, thank you for listening.
Uncle Roger
Tony Gilliam on 21 April 2025
Just listened to the story of Reprise Records very entertaining and this programme should be put forward for some broadcasting award if it has not been already considered for one.
Martyn Bassey on 21 April 2025
Very interesting and entertaining show about the history of Reprise Records. Many thanks to Kevin Taylor.
Barbara Heathcote on 21 April 2025
Hi Roger, I’m so annoyed with myself as I had sky tv engineer just before 12 to install new box and I missed childrens favourites 😟. Any chance of a repeat please.
Roger Williams on 22 April 2025
Hello Barbara,
Sadly there are no official plans for a repeat.
Roger
David Small on 21 April 2025
Many thanks Uncle Roger for some lovely childhood memories when we used to listen to Uncle Mac on a Saturday morning loved all the music . Thank you
Roger Williams on 21 April 2025
David
Thank you for your kind comments, I’m very much a child of the Uncle Mac era and it’s a joy putting the show together. Thank you for listening.
Uncle Roger
Clifford Chambers on 21 April 2025
What a fantastic look back with comical songs we don’t hear anymore. I still howl with laughter at the Ying Tong Song along with the others you played. Thank you.
Roger Williams on 21 April 2025
Hello Clifford
Thank you for your kind comments. It’s a joy playing the songs that I grew up with and they do take us back to a time when the world seemed like a simpler place. The Ying Tong Song makes me chuckle too, even after all these years. Thank you for listening.
Uncle Roger
Deb Brownlee on 20 April 2025
What a joy to hear Mark Steyn on air again. Thank you to whoever dropped on X about his section. Great station as well , now I’ve found it.
Karen on 20 April 2025
Re Dance band days
Roger/Paul do you have a copy of ‘ I wouldn’t leave my little wooden hut for you ‘ In the library. If so it would be great to hear it. I used to sing it when I was about 6 at dancing school and I don’t think I’ve heard since !
Paul Ruddock on 20 April 2025
Hello Karen
I’ve had a rummage through the SR gram library and nothing is appearing; however I’m pretty sure I have Jack Hylton’s version, as part of a medley of old-tyme songs, on a 78 somewhere on the shelves here at home, I’ll see if I can dig it out, clean it up and include it on Dance Band Days for you in the very near future.
Best wishes
Paul
Karen on 20 April 2025
Thank you Paul . I was just reading a book by Vera Lynn and she says it was her dad’s favourite song, which is what popped it back into my mind.! ( and apparently I still know the words 😅)
Paul Ruddock on 24 April 2025
My pleasure Karen, if you listen in to the Saturday 3rd/Monday 5th May editions of Dance Band Days we’ll be featuring ‘the little wooden hut’ as part of that 1929 Jack Hylton medley I mentioned. It’s a bit crackly, but well worth an airing!
Karen on 24 April 2025
Thank you Paul. I’ll be listening.
Randall Riley on 20 April 2025
Hello. Just now heard you play Kitty Kallen singing “It’s Been a Long Long Time,” which you said was backed with the Harry James Orchestra. The version you are playing is from Kitty’s 1963 RCA Album “Kitty Kallen’s ‘My Coloring Book’ And Her Other Great Hits,” with an orchestra backing by Ray Ellis. She softly sings the intro on this version. The version she recorded with Harry James in 1945 has a very brassy bright intro by Harry and the Orchestra and she only comes in toward the middle of the record. Just a minor correction. Enjoy listening to the station!
Vic Groves on 20 April 2025
Hello Randall,
Thanks for getting in touch ad thanks for the information! You are, of course, correct. Slapped wrist for me! Thanks for listening and keeping me on track.
Regards,
Vic